Film Review | OUT OF DARKNESS Untold history of African people
“Out of Darkness,” directed and written by Amadeuz Christ, is a thought-provoking documentary that examines the often overlooked and systematically erased history of the African people. This film arrives at a crucial time when racial conflicts are notably high. The film offers a new lens to view the contributions and significance of African civilization to the world.
Fundamentally, the film argues that European culture and supremacy have historically and effectively obscured African origins and influences from the historical narrative. This erasure is particularly significant because many aspects of what we consider ‘civilized’ and ‘enlightened’ in the modern world find their roots in Africa. From the creation of the first language and paper to the establishment of governments and calendars, the film argues that these innovations originated in the Nile Valley Civilization. The documentary goes as far as to suggest that Africans were pioneers in science and exploration, having reached North America before the Native Americans.
Moreover, the film sheds light on how Western education systems have deprived generations of Africans, and particularly African children, of pride in their heritage as true inventors, philosophers, and explorers. It also addresses the heavy topic of slavery in the United States, exploring its psychological impact and the enduring legacy of trauma it has left on African American communities.
Featuring interviews with prominent Black historians, anthropologists, and activists like Dr. Umar Johnson, Tony Browder, and Dr. Claud Anderson, the documentary presents a compelling narrative backed by archival photos, films, and artifacts. These voices contribute significantly to the film’s authority and depth, offering a comprehensive definition of systemic racism and white supremacy.
“Out of Darkness” is not just a film; it’s an educational journey that challenges many preconceived notions about the African diaspora and its contributions to global civilization. The documentary’s approach to presenting these untold stories is both enlightening and necessary, especially in today’s context where understanding and acknowledging the true breadth of African influence is more important than ever.
With a score of 8/10, it stands as a crucial piece of cinematic work that not only answers many questions about being Black in America but also raises new ones, inviting viewers to reassess and broaden their understanding of history and race.
