Black Art: In the Absence of Light (2021): Cast & Ratings
Black Art: In the Absence of Light is a 2021 documentary directed by Sam Pollard, starring Nick Cave, Tom Brokaw and Denise Nicholas. It runs 1 hour 25 minutes. Its Echo Score is 87/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 25m (85 min)
- Director
- Sam Pollard
- Genre
- Documentary
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- HBO Documentary Films
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Black Art: In the Absence of Light About?
The premise of Black Art: In the Absence of Light without spoilers.
This documentary explores the work of leading contemporary Black visual artists, drawing inspiration from the seminal 1976 exhibition "Two Centuries of Black American Art" by the late David Driskell. It offers a compelling introduction to these artists and their significant contributions to the art world, celebrating a rich legacy and showcasing diverse perspectives.
Black Art: In the Absence of Light Themes & Keywords
· 5 tags- museum
- reference to beyonce
- reference to instagram
- reference to gordon parks
- interview
Black Art: In the Absence of Light Cast
Nick Cave leads the cast, with Tom Brokaw and Denise Nicholas. Directed by Sam Pollard; 35 actors are credited in all.
- Director Sam Pollard
- Nick Cave as themselves
- Tom Brokaw as themselves
- Denise Nicholas as themselves
- Swizz Beatz as themselves
Also Starring in Black Art: In the Absence of Light
· 31 more- Kara Walker Themselves
- Kehinde Wiley Themselves
- Michele Wallace Themselves
- Betye Saar Themselves
- Richard J. Powell Themselves
- Carrie Mae Weems Themselves
- Pamela Newkirk Themselves
- Theaster Gates Themselves
- Amy Sherald Themselves
- Glenn Ligon Themselves
- Fred Wilson Themselves
- Sarah Lewis Themselves
- Jordan Casteel Themselves
- Kerry James Marshall Themselves
- Hank Willis Thomas Themselves
- Mary LoveLace O'Neal Themselves
Show all 35 cast members Show fewer cast members
- Richard Mayhew Themselves
- Radcliffe Bailey Themselves
- Lyle Ashton Harris Themselves
- Kendall Carter Themselves
- Sanford Biggers Themselves
- David C. Driskell Themselves
- Faith Ringgold Themselves
- Alison Saar Themselves
- McArthur Binion Themselves
- Mary Schmidt Campbell Themselves
- Valerie Cassel Oliver Themselves
- Rujeko Hockley Themselves
- Linda C. Harrison Themselves
- Bernard Lumpkin Themselves
- Maurice Berger Themselves
More from Sam Pollard
More films directed by Sam Pollard, best-rated first: Mr. SOUL!, I Was Born This Way, Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys and South to Black Power.
Black Art: In the Absence of Light Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 87/100, strongest in rewatch factor (88) and weakest in story & flow (78).
Black Art: In the Absence of Light Echo Score Breakdown
Overall, the documentary presents a compelling survey of Black artistic achievement with a clear, informative approach. Critics and viewers alike praise its thorough research, engaging pacing, and striking visual presentation of a wide range of works. While a few comments note occasional brevity in lingering on individual pieces, the film succeeds in educating and inspiring audiences. Consequently, the film earns a high overall Echo Score reflecting strong positive consensus.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 85
Regarding direction, cinematography, and production design, the film demonstrates a polished visual style that highlights the artwork effectively. Critics cite its fast‑paced editing and vivid presentation of museum interiors, while some note a desire for longer camera linger on pieces. Overall, the art‑craft execution is strong and enhances the documentary’s informative intent.
- Character & Emotion 82
In terms of character and emotional resonance, the documentary relies on interviews with artists, curators, and historians to provide depth. Reviewers commend the nuanced performances of participants and the authentic studio moments that convey personal motivations. Although the format limits dramatization, the overall human element feels authentic and enriches the narrative.
- Story & Flow 78
The documentary’s storytelling intertwines historical context with contemporary perspectives, offering a cohesive yet expansive narrative. Critics appreciate its measured pacing that balances breadth of artists with focused segments, though some suggest the sheer volume of content could overwhelm a single viewing. Overall, the story maintains engagement and conveys the evolution of Black art effectively.
- Sensory Experience 84
The sensory experience combines vivid cinematography of artworks with a subtle soundtrack that supports the visual focus. Reviewers highlight the striking color palettes and clear framing that allow viewers to appreciate details of paintings, sculptures, and installations. While the audio is understated, it effectively underscores the exhibition without distraction.
- Rewatch Factor 88
The rewatch factor is strong, as the film introduces a wealth of artists and works that invite further exploration. Critics note that viewers leave with a desire to seek out the highlighted pieces, and users report renewed interest in researching and acquiring art. Consequently, the documentary offers lasting appeal and multiple viewings.
Black Art: In the Absence of Light Trailers & Videos
The trailer of Black Art: In the Absence of Light.
Black Art: In the Absence of Light Also Known As
6 alternative titles, including “Afroamerikāņu māksla: gaismā” and “Black Art: A fény hiánya”.
- Also known as
-
- Afroamerikāņu māksla: gaismā
- Black Art: A fény hiánya
- Arte negro: En ausencia de la luz
- Arte Negra - Na Ausência da Luz
- Arte negro: en ausencia de luz
- אמנות שחורה: בהיעדר האור
Seen Black Art: In the Absence of Light?
Movies Like Black Art: In the Absence of Light
Films with a similar story, tone or audience, including Black Art, Black Artists, Dark Matter: A History of the Afrofuture and The Black List: Volume One.
-
Black Art, Black Artists 1971 -
Dark Matter: A History of the Afrofuture 2021 -
The Black List: Volume One 2008 -
Black Theatre: The Making of a Movement 1978 -
Is That Black Enough for You?!? 2022 -
Black White + Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff and Robert Mapplethorpe 2007 -
Black Is… Black Ain’t 1994 -
Black Mother 2019 -
Blackness Is Everything 2021 -
Black Sun 2005 -
Dark Light: The Art of Blind Photographers 2009 -
The Beauty of Blackness 2022
Black Art: In the Absence of Light FAQ: Cast & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Black Art: In the Absence of Light, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Black Art: In the Absence of Light?
Black Art: In the Absence of Light runs 1 hour 25 minutes (85 minutes).
When was Black Art: In the Absence of Light released?
Black Art: In the Absence of Light was released on February 9, 2021.
Who directed Black Art: In the Absence of Light?
Black Art: In the Absence of Light was directed by Sam Pollard.
More films by Sam Pollard Who is in the cast of Black Art: In the Absence of Light?
Black Art: In the Absence of Light stars Nick Cave, Tom Brokaw and Denise Nicholas, among 35 credited actors.
Does Black Art: In the Absence of Light have a post-credit scene?
No. Black Art: In the Absence of Light has no extra scene during or after the credits.
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