Brian Huberman documentary filmmaker

Another media kerfluffle surrounding blackface, or what seems to be described as "basically blackface." The story on Tyra Bank's transgression here. But the real matter seems to be: why does this make people so uncomfortable? I certainly understand why, myself.  But no one seems to really discuss it... It will be very interesting to see people's reaction to the use of blackface in the BH film, Alligator Horses, which is currently in the final stages of editing.

In preparation for the release of Alligator-Horses, BH Productions' newest film about racism and folklore in 19th century America, it seems smart to stay in touch with contemporary discussions about Blackface minstrel performance, which is generally treated as an untouchable, taboo topic today.  Alligator-Horses shows several contemporary white performers dancing and singing in Blackface, which many viewers, no doubt, will find difficult to stomach. Especially if they are not familiar with the difficult task of examining history through a contemporary lens.

That said, here's a great article from Slate.com, which expresses some of the sentiments about history that will be helpful, perhaps, when viewing the more controversial aspects of this film.

"Yes, blackface comedy was racist and appalling, and people should never stop saying so. It is also a key to cracking the code of American culture."

"This music, by contemporary standards, is offensive [...]. Those interested in history, not "heroes," will want—are compelled—to listen."

—Jody Rosen

In light of the controversial blackface appearance in the newest project, Alligator-Horses, this reference to blackface seems interesting.

"Baron Cohen's Brüno is a gay minstrel, in the most literal sense of the word. Just as the characters of the burnt-cork vaudevillians had, bound up ineluctably with their dark complexions, traits like being shiftless, lazy, and 'a-feared of spooks' as their eyes bugged out in Neanderthal, superstitious terror, Brüno's homosexuality comes bundled up with a lot of unattractive software." --David Rakoff