Virginia Film Festival

Oscar-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams (The 1619 Project) brings Dr. Ibram X. Kendi’s acclaimed book of the same name to life on the screen in Stamped from the Beginning. Dr. Kendi’s book, a New York Times bestseller, meticulously traces the history and impact of anti-Black racist ideas throughout American history. Williams’ film adaptation employs an innovative animation technique, seamlessly blending live action with period-specific artwork to highlight significant historical events and figures—some widely recognized and others nearly forgotten.

The documentary features prominent female academic activists, including Dr. Angela Davis, who provide scholarly insights by recounting the development and perpetuation of racist tropes and imagery in American culture. Stamped From the Beginning offers a thought-provoking retrospective of American history, aiming to grapple with how the nation’s past continues to shape its present.

Discussion with producer Alisa Payne. Moderated by Beatrice Loayza (the New York Times, Film Comment).