Melanated Tales is a Black film series analyzing African American cinema and the importance of people telling their stories. The Pryor Effect is a glimpse into the profound and provocative films of Richard Pryor, an iconic Black entertainer who held no punches and saw no topic as taboo. Pryor’s films took on controversy with moral integrity—while still satisfying our need for comedic relief. Participants in this workshop will discuss four of Pryor’s films from the late 1970s and early 80s that left a mark on Black cinema history—The Bingo Long Travelling All-Stars & Motor Kings (1976), Which Way is Up? (1977), Bustin’ Loose (1981), and The Toy (1982)—and write to prompts pulled from the films’ dialogue.
Telling stories inspired by Black people’s experiences—in our own voices!—is important to our representation in film, television, stage, and literature. The purpose of this workshop is to get writers comfortable doing just that in any genre. Participants will leave having started new pieces that boldly reflect the rawness and beauty of Black culture through their eyes. The goal is always to write. Your vision must be to finish.
TUESDAYS / 6:00 – 8:00 PM (ET) VIA ZOOM
FEBRUARY 6 – 27
Melanated Tales: The Pryor Effect will be capped at 15 participants. Please do not register if you are unable to attend all four weeks.