The Life and Work of Oscar Micheaux: Pioneer Black Author and Filmmaker 1884-1951

Over a three-decade period that began in 1919, Oscar Micheaux wrote, directed, edited, produced and distributed over forty films nationally and internationally. These films usually featured all-Black casts. They spanned a silent film period (1919-1930)and a talkie period (sound films) (1931-1948). Given such a background and the period in American history into which he was born, Micheaux's achievements were extraordinary and his legacy is a study of survival, persistence, and bold determination to develop a new era in Black films. The book features a commentary by actor/producer Ossie Davis and has review copy (on the back cover) by Dr. Maya Angelou and Dr. Henry T. Sampson. This book was edited by the late Dr. Beverly J. Robinson, who was Professor at the School of Theater, Film and Television at UCLA for nearly 25 years.