Salamishah's Articles

20 Years of Black Lesbian Cinema

A slew of unheralded but significant films helped pave the way for critically acclaimed Pariah.

Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It' Turns 25

Grown and sexy: The director's daring film changed the game in Hollywood -- and assumptions about black women's sexuality.

The Root Review: 'Mooz-lum,' a New Spin on an Old Tale

At times overwhelming in scope and pace, the new film Mooz-lum offers a new twist on a familiar tale of tolerance.

George Washington and His Runaway Slave

A new Philadelphia museum, the President's House, dramatically illustrates how the nation's first president tried to thwart his slave's quest for freedom. But Oney Judge prevailed.

The Root Review: 'Night Catches Us'

Starring Anthony Mackie and Kerry Washington, Tanya Hamilton's moving debut takes us back to 1976, when Jimmy Carter was about to be president, funk was king and the Black Panthers were trying to pick up the pieces.

Black Feminism, Tyler Perry Style

Why Ntozake Shange's feminist message of gender equality, reproductive justice and sexual liberation has been seriously compromised in the hands of the hit filmmaker.

Mad at 'Mad Men'

The creators of Mad Men get so many things right in this period television series. Too bad they get black women so wrong. Plus: The Mad Men Black People Counter notes a surprise in the season finale.

Ethiopian Jazz: Thrilling Music That You Should Hear

Contemporary Ethiopian musicians reinvigorate traditional jazz stylings for new audiences in America and Addis Ababa.

August Wilson's Leading Lady: An Ode to Viola Davis

Viola Davis, currently appearing in Fences opposite Denzel Washington, knows a thing or two about scene stealing. Just ask Meryl Streep. Here's hoping that the Oscar-nominated actress brings home another Tony this weekend.