In an enlightening discussion, Floyd Marshall Jr., host of A Conversation With, delves into the vital topic of Black films and their creation with special guests: Christina Richardson, Letia Solomon, and Tobi Gadison. The roundtable conversation brings a critical lens to the question: Who should be making Black films? It explores the responsibilities of filmmakers from all backgrounds when it comes to representing Black stories, culture, and communities on screen.

A Glimpse into the Guests

Christina Richardson, an award-winning director and filmmaker, shared her journey from a child actress to a sought-after director. Her passion for authentic storytelling has driven her to work with top brands like Walmart, McDonald’s, and Meta. Christina now directs branded content and narrative projects, focusing on showcasing diverse stories through her unique lens.

Letia Solomon, a chemical engineer turned filmmaker, has worked on major productions such as ABC’s Station 19 and created award-winning short films. A committed storyteller, Letia champions bold and underrepresented narratives that challenge and expand the scope of what Black films can be.

Tobi Gadison, an actor, producer, and director, emphasized his path in both film and theatre, having landed roles in major movies like Ray and The Dukes of Hazzard. Tobi has channeled his passion for the arts into mentoring and community outreach, providing pathways for others to break into the entertainment industry.

Should Black Stories Be Told Exclusively by Black Filmmakers?

The core question posed in the podcast centers on whether Black films should only be created by Black filmmakers. Marshall Jr. noted that while Black filmmakers have a unique cultural insight, the conversation isn’t about excluding other voices but rather ensuring accurate and respectful representation when others tell Black stories.

Christina Richardson echoed this sentiment, stating, “When you don’t have Black people telling their own stories, you run the risk of perpetuating stereotypes. We have so many untold stories, and without authentic voices, those stories become repetitive and inauthentic.” Richardson emphasized that diverse perspectives on set—both behind and in front of the camera—are key to producing well-rounded, robust narratives.

Diversity in Filmmaking: A Necessity

Letia Solomon shared her experiences in various production environments, from working with Shondaland’s Station 19 to smaller, independent films. Solomon praised Shondaland’s commitment to diverse writers and directors, which she felt significantly contributed to the authentic portrayal of Black experiences on the show. “When you have diverse voices, you get a more accurate reflection of the world,” Letia said. She also mentioned that while diverse representation in writers’ rooms is increasing, there is still a long way to go.

The Cultural Responsibility of Filmmakers

Tobi Gadison highlighted the responsibility non-Black filmmakers hold when they choose to tell Black stories. He noted, “If you’re not Black but you’re making a Black film, it’s essential to collaborate with Black creatives to ensure the authenticity of the narrative.” Tobi stressed that it’s not about barring anyone from creating, but ensuring that cultural nuances and lived experiences are portrayed accurately and respectfully.

Moving Forward: The Future of Black Cinema

As the conversation unfolded, all three guests agreed that the future of Black films lies in collaboration, education, and diversity. Filmmakers, whether Black or not, must understand the significance of their roles in shaping cultural narratives. Christina Richardson summarized it well: “We’re entering a beautiful era of filmmaking where more of us are being empowered to tell our stories. The key is ensuring that we’re doing so authentically and with care.”