The Watermelon Woman

This film is part of the series Reel Visions Black lesbian video store employee and filmmaker Cheryl (Cheryl Dunye) decides to make a documentary about the Watermelon Woman, an actress who specialized in mammy roles in 1930s Hollywood. When Cheryl’s research reveals the identity of the Watermelon Woman, she learns about a secret behind-the-scenes interracial lesbian relationship, and soon finds herself in an interracial relationship of her own, much to the chagrin of her best friend. A landmark of New Queer Cinema and the first American feature to be directed by a Black lesbian, The Watermelon Woman is an insightful study of learning how to make your own legacy outside of oppressive frameworks. This screening will be preceded by a musical performance from ZamboniFunk.