Phoenix

1990 · ref. 21075 — St. Louis/New York: Phoenix Films 1990. Near Fine/No Dust Jacket As Issued. A significant document of African American cinematic recovery this magazine-style prospectus details the legendary 1983 rediscovery of 'race films' in a Tyler Texas warehouse. It serves as a comprehensive guide to the features and newsreels produced between 1935 and 1956 that were rescued from deteriorating nitrate stock and restored for modern study. KEY FEATURES Content: Provides detailed overviews cast lists and particulars for 6 short subjects 9 feature films and a series of newsreels from 1935-1956. Visuals: Illustrated throughout with black-and-white production photography and film stills. Historical Context: Documents the transition of the collection to the SMU Southern Methodist University archives under Professor G. William Jones. Associated Names: Features works by pioneering Black directors and producers including Oscar Micheaux Spencer Williams and William Alexander. Rarity: Uncommon; most copies were discarded by libraries or film departments once the videos were integrated into collections. Form:Stapled glossy wraps. 11 x 8.5 inches / 6 interior pages plus original order form. CONDITION: Near Fine -- Stapled wraps on glossy paper are bright and well-preserved. Minimal handling wear with a contemporary address mailing sticker on the rear cover. Interior is clean tight and unmarked. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE -- The Tyler Texas Black Film Collection represents one of the most dramatic 'saves' in American film history. Discovered just as the original nitrate reels were beginning to decompose these films-produced outside the Hollywood system for segregated audiences-offer a rare authentic portrayal of Black culture faith and social struggle in the mid-20th century. This prospectus issued by Phoenix Films during the initial distribution of the restored media is a vital primary source for the study of film preservation. It chronicles the moment these 'lost' masterpieces by directors like Spencer Williams of 'The Blood of Jesus' fame were reintroduced to the American scholarly canon. SUBJECTS: African American Cinema Race Films Independent Film Production Film Preservation Oscar Micheaux Spencer Williams SMU G. William Jones Collection Black History Texas History Media Studies Ephemera Film History Prospectus African Americana. BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCE See: 'Discovering Black Film History: Tracing the Tyler Texas Black Film Collection' Film History Vol. 23. Phoenix Films unknown