July 28th: Today's Feature

July

Menelik Shabazz

(30 May 1954 – 28 June 2021)

Menelik Shabazz, a Barbados-born British filmmaker, educator, and writer, left an indelible mark on the landscape of independent Black British cinema. Over a career spanning more than three decades, Shabazz was a trailblazer in the industry, pushing boundaries and championing diverse voices in filmmaking.

His groundbreaking 1981 film, Burning an Illusion, catapulted him into the spotlight and solidified his reputation as a visionary director. Beyond his work on the big screen, Shabazz was instrumental in establishing key institutions such as the Kuumba film production company and Ceddo Film and Video Workshop, which served as platforms for emerging Black filmmakers to showcase their talent.

Shabazz's legacy extends beyond his filmography, as he was also a driving force behind the BFM media project, which included the publication of Black Filmmaker Magazine and the creation of the BFM International Film Festival. Through his tireless dedication to promoting Black voices in cinema, Shabazz paved the way for future generations of filmmakers to tell their stories and make their mark on the industry.

Early Years

Shabazz's journey began in the picturesque town of St John, Barbados, where he was born in 1954. However, destiny had something else in store for him as his family decided to immigrate to the United Kingdom when he was just five years old. It was during his formative years in his village that he developed a deep fascination for the world of cinema, eagerly watching mobile cinema screenings. This passion only grew stronger when, at the tender age of 18, he was introduced to Sony's groundbreaking portable video technology while studying at North London College. This encounter ignited a spark within him, planting the seed of a dream to become a filmmaker.

Determined to pursue his newfound passion, Shabazz took a leap of faith and enrolled at the prestigious London International Film School in 1974. However, his journey was not without its challenges. Despite his unwavering dedication, he faced a setback when he was unable to attend the school for an extended period. The reason behind this unfortunate turn of events was the denial of a "discretionary grant" from his local borough council. Nevertheless, Shabazz's indomitable spirit refused to be dampened by this setback. Instead, he used this time to absorb invaluable knowledge, gain confidence, and find inspiration that would propel him forward on his path as a filmmaker.

Educational Work

Shabazz has shared his knowledge and expertise through lectures and workshops on an international scale, reaching audiences in the Caribbean, the UK, and the US. His engagements have taken place at prestigious venues and educational institutions such as the National Film and Television School, University of Southampton, University of Leeds, University of North East London, University of Westminster, London International Film School, British Film Institute, New York University, and Howard University.

His impactful work, which includes projects like The Story of Lover's Rock, Step Forward Youth, Breaking Point, Blood Ah Go Run, Catch a Fire, Time and Judgement, Burning an Illusion, and Looking for Love, can now be enjoyed by a wider audience as they are available on DVD. These films showcase his talent and dedication to storytelling, shedding light on important social issues and cultural narratives.

Black film-maker magazine & bfm International Film Festival

Shabazz, a visionary in the film industry, made a significant impact in 1998 when he established Black Filmmaker Magazine (bfm), a groundbreaking publication dedicated to the global black filmmaking industry. This pioneering magazine quickly gained recognition and was distributed not only in Europe but also across the United States, reaching a wide audience.

In addition to the magazine, Shabazz's passion for promoting black world cinema and nurturing British talent led him to create the bfm International Film Festival in 1999. This prestigious event served as a platform for showcasing exceptional films and inspiring aspiring filmmakers. Over the years, the festival grew to become the largest of its kind in Europe, attracting talented individuals from various backgrounds.

Shabazz's motivation behind launching Black Filmmaker Magazine stemmed from his frustrations within the film industry. Determined to transform his anger into something positive, he initially started the magazine as a means to provide valuable information to the next generation of filmmakers. At the time, he noticed a lack of young people entering the industry consistently, and the magazine served as a vital link between the industry and aspiring filmmakers. This initiative eventually led to the establishment of the renowned Black Filmmaker International Film Festival.

Legacy

Fast forward to June 2019, and Black Filmmaker Magazine experienced a remarkable revival. Shabazz collaborated with his longtime friend and business partner, the talented filmmaker and photographer Floyd Webb, to relaunch the magazine online. This exciting collaboration breathed new life into the publication, ensuring that it continues to be a powerful platform for showcasing black filmmaking talent and providing valuable insights into the industry.

Shabazz's journey from founding Black Filmmaker Magazine to relaunching it online demonstrates his unwavering commitment to empowering black filmmakers and promoting diversity within the industry. His vision and dedication have not only inspired countless individuals but have also paved the way for a more inclusive and vibrant film landscape. Black Filmmaker Magazine remains a testament to Shabazz's enduring legacy and his tireless efforts to create positive change within the film industry.