Issa Rae is diligently focusing on highlighting the past of TV productions by Black creators through her forthcoming HBO documentary series titled “Seen & Heard.” During a comprehensive discussion, she shared insights about this project at SXSW.
In my perspective as a movie reviewer, I found myself captivated by the premiere of “Seen & Heard,” a series that delves into the intriguing history of Hollywood’s relationship with Black audiences. The first episode, skillfully guided by Rotten Tomatoes’ Jacqueline Coley, sheds light on a troubling pattern: studios exploiting the presence and support of Black communities, only to discard them when it suited their convenience.
As I watched this documentary unfold, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of disbelief, as if uncovering a hidden conspiracy. However, what struck me most was how the production process of “Seen & Heard” served as a stark reminder of how deeply rooted and pervasive this trend truly is. The documentary, masterfully crafted by Rae, serves as an essential watch for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics between Hollywood and Black audiences.
Rae stated, ‘It’s one thing to talk about it; you may have heard others mention it in relation to television and specific networks. However, to have the actual creators, producers, and writers narrate the history is irrefutable. Our goal was to create a thorough account of this history, providing proof that their network success was built on our labor, with little to show for it in return. It’s heartbreaking, and it seems history continues to repeat itself.'”
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“Rae pointed out, ‘It’s common to discuss it, perhaps you’ve heard similar sentiments in the context of television and certain networks. But when the creators, showrunners, and writers themselves tell the story, it becomes undeniable. We aimed to produce a detailed chronicle, backed by evidence, demonstrating that their network success was built on our labor, leaving us with little to show for it. It’s sad, and it appears history is doomed to repeat itself.'”
(Or)
“According to Rae, ‘It’s often said; you might have heard similar sentiments in the realm of television and specific networks. However, when the creators, producers, and writers themselves recount the story, it becomes indisputable. We sought to create a comprehensive history, supported by evidence, showing that their network success was built on our labor, with little to gain for ourselves. It’s unfortunate, and it seems history is destined to repeat itself.’
Throughout the show, notable figures in the television industry such as Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, Shonda Rhimes, Ava DuVernay, Norman Lear and others make appearances. Although their careers are extensively covered, Rae mentioned that some of them shared previously undisclosed details about their professional paths during their interviews.
She mentioned that they possess remarkable tales, which might not have been addressed in this specific manner before. It’s a privilege to feature Oprah, to honor Mara Brock Akil, and to let Tyler Perry discuss his journey in establishing a studio we all aim for – an experience I share, as I watched it unfold and listened to these stories for the first time. The conclusion of that documentary has motivated me to strive for more and organize my affairs effectively.
Rae additionally disclosed that reality TV played a significant role in sparking her career ambitions, though not always favorably – she labels this genre as her “backstory for becoming a villain.
Her initial passion for TV work was sparked by popular Black sitcoms such as “Moesha,” “Girlfriends,” and “Martin.” However, during the mid to late 2000s, there was a significant lack of Black scripted shows on television. This absence angered her, but then the rise of reality TV, particularly in terms of Black women’s representation, caused further frustration. Despite finding enjoyment in watching it and gathering friends to her college apartment, she still felt it was just another form of “let’s watch this mediocre content.” It became a form of grudging appreciation, or hate-watching.
Later on, Rae reminisced about a notorious incident from “Flavor of Love” – a dating program featuring Flavor Flav – which prompted her to voice her opinion and take action independently.
The girl, whom he often referred to by less than flattering nicknames, stated that she had to relieve herself. Since they were in the midst of a ceremony, the producers informed her she couldn’t leave. Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to hold it and ended up having an accident on the floor, which was broadcasted live on television.
Rae went on to say: “I found myself saying, ‘This is embarrassing, and this is all the representation Black women have on TV at the moment.’ Since ‘Girlfriends’ had ended, all other shows seemed to vanish. It was then I started writing film reviews and expressing my opinions a lot, when someone suggested, ‘You sure talk a lot of nonsense. Why don’t you create something instead?’ So a big thank you goes out to that person.
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2025-03-09 00:18