Paul Robeson: The First Black Star | TIFF 2017

TIFF Black Star curator Ashley Clark discusses the life and career of Paul Robeson, and what makes him the first Black Star.

In partnership with the British Film Institute (BFI), TIFF presents Black Star.

Black Star is generously supported by The Hal Jackman Foundation.

From Paul Robeson, Lena Horne, Sidney Poitier, Richard Pryor and Diana Ross to Denzel Washington, Danny Glover, Queen Latifah, Will Smith and David Oyelowo, this expansive retrospective celebrates 100 years of Black excellence on screen. The series runs November 3 to December 22 at TIFF Bell Lightbox.

[thisrandomdude]

Paul Robeson once stated in front of a committee out for his blood, that he felt like a real human being for the first time in his life when he visited Russia (i.e the USSR). When asked why he wouldn't just stay in Russia, he responded proudly, that his father was a slave, that his ancestors died to build this country, and that he had as much a right to decide its fate as any other man present, and fight against the neo-fascists in power! He was a wonderful man, with a wonderful mind, able to form beautiful declarations, which I simply cannot portray in such a way that would do him justice.

[jimboy]

Wikipedia says he quit acting in movies voluntarily because he wasn't happy with the roles he could get. He became a concert singer and political activist. Also, he was a victim of the Anti-communist wave after WW2 which is why his passport was revoked. Thanks for making this - more people should know about him.

[shimmeringfairydust]

It’s a shame most people are unaware of this genius. It’s even sadder he lived in the time he did. Today, he would be an enormously popular star, probably an EGOT winner. I don’t think there are enough accolades to describe this man. Exceptionally brilliant, a gifted athlete, a singing (and speaking!) voice few equalled, an actor of astonishing brilliance and so, so brave. Not to mention he was easy on the eyes. I would encourage those unfamiliar with him to seek out his films, music and speeches. Talk about a real American hero! Absolutely phenomenal.

[nomi]

Paul Robeson must never be forgotten. He left his mark on the struggle for racial equality.

[brutusalwaysminded]

They really tried to erase him from history. Too powerful. Thanks.

[Urstupidumbass]

Why did you guys leave out the fact that he was persecuted by HUAC for being a "communist"? It is undoubtedly why his history is hidden in the mainstream today. The omission of the facet is just another perpetuation of the censorship Robeson had to endure.

"In Russia I felt for the first time like a full human being. No color prejudice like in Mississippi, no color prejudice like in Washington. It was the first time I felt like a human being." - Paul Robeson

[blurrykillua]

Why aren't we taught about this amazing man in school? Such a damn shame that i found out about this man and everything he stood for throughout his lifetime from the internet instead of the institutions that are supposed to educate us about the true nature of our history. He deserves to be more widely remembered.

[shawncurtis]

He didn't back down, he was forthright and had implacable conviction.

[kelinmemphis]

When he sung, " IM TIRED OF LIVING BUT SCARED OF DYING ", In SHOW BOAT WAS SAD BUT SOO BEAUTIFUL.

[elena]

Interesting as this was, it doesn’t come anywhere near describing Paul Robeson the man, he was an enormous figure in the 20 century, no one else comes close the man was simply a genius, one day when Hollywood starts to make decent films, they will attempt a portrayal of the great man, but it will be a total flop because it’s impossible to portray even half the.wonderful gifts that Paul gave to the human race.

[MsAppleofhiseye]

Handsome, talented and for his People. Body and soul was how I was introduced to him. Stellar man.

[Tedisntakidanymore]

As a tight end at Rutgers, Paul Robeson was named to the All-America He was also the valedictorian of his class. That's how special he was.

[jonahdommett]

There’s nothing I wouldn’t do to have met this man, Paul’s voice is incredible with how powerful he projects it.
I’m a simp for Paul Robeson
Miss ya Paul man

[ኣምበላይ]

Someone needs to make a movie about him

[huntersquad]

I'm trying to learn more about him.. so far I admire him

[alanle]

He was a brilliant intellectual, artistic and academic talent who could speak over thirty languages.

[Bembeleke]

Paul Robeson was excellence at everything he did whether it was music theatre politics sports civil rights he was a true perfectionist coming from a family tree of very prominent significant people. God bless you brother.

[JStarStar]

It's disappointing a major biopic movie hasn't been made on Paul Robeson.

[zabaleta]

I only knew of Paul Robeson as the singer....Old Man River. Fascinating guy.

[allymayful]

What an excellent tribute of my Welsh dad's hero - thank you.