Family. Film. Conversation. Change.
There’s nothing like gathering with family, a bowl of popcorn, and a good movie. The REEL VIEW movie series makes that experience not just memorable, but meaningful.
REEL VIEW is designed to spark intergenerational conversations on issues of educational equity for Black men, using film as a powerful tool for connection and reflection. Each screening is paired with custom discussion guides and curricula that help families, faith groups, and community organizations explore the themes together—turning powerful stories into purpose-driven dialogue.
Through laughter, learning, and love, REEL VIEW transforms family movie night into a movement—one that inspires awareness, advocacy, and action in the ongoing pursuit of justice and opportunity for all.
1960’s-1970’s
SHE SPEAKS
Dreams Deferred
What really happens to a dream deferred? In this session, we examine the power of the voice of women. We examine how women play a role (as mother, sister and wife) in the support of a young man and his dream for success. (1950s)
Topics: racism, classism, motherhood, manhood
Home-School Hero
Parents are a child’s first teachers. We discuss the progression of gender roles in the home and how school experiences are influenced by connection between home and school. (1957)
Topics: manhood, motherhood, fatherhood
Mr. Welfare
What does the government have to do with the educational process of children of color? Policy impacts the way generations are educated and empowered to close the wealth gap. We take a look at single-mother’s struggle in the educational process. (1974)
Topics: poverty, social policy, motherhood, non-custodial parent, fatherhood, activism
Movies put pictures in motion. These impressions make learning everlasting. The films for REEL VIEW have been selected to create intergenerational conversations that will tell stories that teach purpose.
1980s
HE SPEAKS
Family Matters
In what ways have our family structures shaped the way we learn? If parents are the child’s first teachers family becomes the classroom. In this session, we will talk about the importance of family in meeting the socio-emotional needs of young people. (1970s)
Topics: single-parenthood, extended families, regional distinctions
King’s Kids
How can we create an educational system meant for a king? Policy impacts the way generations are educated and empowered to address socio-economic issues. In this session, we will talk about the influence of patriarchal systems on how we think and what we choose as societal norms. (1980s)
Topics: financial education; socio-economics
Black Boy Joy
What does fatherlessness have to do with education? This session highlights the role of fathers in the educational process. Here we also discuss the change in gender roles when fathers become the custodial parent.
Topics: fatherhood, single parents, boyhood, brotherhood, peer groups, stereotypes
Student Creed
What is the student creed? It is the standard or set of beliefs that guides a student behavior. In this session, we will define the term “discipline’ and talk about how the perspective of discipline must shift from punishment to priority.
Topics: discipline; school-to-prison-pipeline
College Bound
They say college is not for everyone right? What if it is for someone, but there are barriers in circumstance and/or character? In this session, we will take a look at how we plan post-secondary options and prepare for the “preempts.”
Topics: college-readiness, high-school experiences
Choice Parents
How do we respond to young people “without” parents? Students in foster care programs are at the mercy of a system. This session, we will look at the type of support systems that must be put in place for youth in foster care.
Topics: mental, health & wellness, motherhood, fatherhood, foster-care systems
Meaningful dialogue isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. REEL VIEW is about using film to spark intergenerational conversations about evolving gender roles, identity, and justice. By reflecting on the past and engaging the present, families and communities are inspired to advocate for educational equity and shape a more purposeful future.
1990s-NOW
WE ARE ALL TALKING
Wonderfully Made
What is it like to be a Black male with a disability? We know children with unique abilities are wonderfully made. The village will always see exceptionalism when it invests in students with special needs.
Topics: Special education; I.D.E.A.
HIS-story Lessons
How do we bring the unknown untold stories of the marginalized to the forefront? Policy impacts the way generations are being educated and empowered to address socio-economics and racism. This session will look at Critical Race Theory (CRT) and explain why it is a threat to some and guidance to others.
Topics: legacy, civics
Race To The Top
Why does Wakanda have to be fictitious? In this session, we make connections between education and economic empowerment for future generations.
Topics: Topics: anti-racism, STEM, human capital, leadership, women in leadership