Mr. SOUL! tells the story of Ellis Haizlip and his ground-breaking variety show, SOUL!, that showcased the black experience in America during the late 60s and early 70s. It was a show by black people, for black people and hosted the likes of Sidney Poitier, Stevie Wonder and Maya Angelou. Haizlip, a proud gay man, boldly created a platform for black music, poetry and ideas in a racially divisive era. Directors Samuel Pollard and Malissa Haizlip (Ellis's niece) take us on the five year journey of the SOUL! series and dive into the life of its creator. I chose this film because Ellis Haizlip, who passed away in 1991, deserves recognition and admiration for his daring and profound vision. Ellis's mission was, in his own words, ‘to sensitize and involve the total community in the lifestyle and rhythm’ of black Americans. His life and career have inspired me on many levels and continues to influence my work today.
The 20th Annual Woodstock Film Festival will take place October 2-6! Mark your calendars and look forward to joining Woodstock Film Festival for our big anniversary. Keep up to date with everything Woodstock Film Festival through our official website, signing up for our monthly newsletters and following the festival's latest news on social media. See you next autumn!
CLICK HERE FOR HI-RES FESTIVAL PHOTOS and visit the Woodstock Film Festival YouTube channel for video coverage from the 19th annual Maverick Awards Ceremony as well as other 2018 festival Q&As and panels.