Reel Talk: A Conversation About Black Cinema Today

Reel Talk🎥🎞

In a casual roundtable-style conversation about film, I sat down with two of my students, Carzell and Jaida, to discuss the state of Black filmmaking today. We explored the impact of of movie mogel Tyler Perry, the growth of Black representation in Hollywood, and their visions for the future of the industry. As a result of these questions, what emerged was an honest, reflective, and comedic exchange that revealed just how passionate this generation is about storytelling and shifting narratives.

(Pictured: L-Carzell and R-Jaida)

Q&A with Carzell and Jaida

Q: What are your thoughts on Tyler Perry as a filmmaker and his impact on Black cinema?

Carzell:
I think Tyler Perry is kind of a double-edged sword. He’s a phenomenal creator and writer, no doubt, but I also feel like he's diminished the image of the Black community over time. It doesn’t seem like he really cares about helping the community as much as he portrays. That said, Madea is probably one of the funniest characters I’ve ever seen. Madea Goes to Jail is my favorite—it had me rolling.

Jaida:
Tyler Perry is a good writer, but his films have started to recycle themselves. The stories are getting repetitive, always a woman in distress and a man saving her. It’s getting old.

Q: How do you feel about the progress of Black filmmakers and the direction of Black cinema today?

Jaida:
At first, Black cinema wasn’t taken seriously. A lot of early roles for Black actors were really diminishing—like Michael Jackson playing the Scarecrow. But over time, we’ve seen growth. Directors like Tyler Perry and others have helped films become more serious and memorable. Still, I think Black creators need to be more unified. We don’t help each other as much as we should. If we showed the same unity we depict in our movies, we’d be taken more seriously. But we’re on the right path—we’re progressing.

Carzell:
Yeah, it’s come a long way—from back then to now, there’s been a lot of improvement.

Q: Who are some of your favorite Black actors and filmmakers?

Carzell:
I’ve got a lot, but I’ll just name five: Jamie Foxx, Morgan Freeman, Richard Pryor, Denzel Washington, and Kevin Hart… I guess. (laughs)

Jaida:
Jamie Foxx is definitely up there. Chris Rock too. And yeah—Will Smith, for sure.

Ariana (Me):
I really like Jonathan Majors—even though there’s been controversy, he’s talented. Will Smith, Angela Bassett, Viola Davis, Felicia Rashad, Cicely Tyson... There are so many. And I think Michael B. Jordan is doing great, too.

Jaida:
Yeah, Taraji P. Henson is another one. I remember hearing her say she was getting underpaid in the industry. Tyler Perry was actually the one who helped her get her first million, which I respect. If we helped each other more, we'd go even further.

Q: If you were filmmakers today, what would you do differently?

Jaida:
I’d add more nuance—capture real life as it flows. Like, this conversation right here—I'd make that cinematic. Some of the best films are rooted in real life. Look at Precious. That was raw and true. I’d love to blend live moments with storytelling in a meaningful way.

Carzell:
I’d give more opportunities to up-and-coming actors instead of always casting the same big names. Everyone deserves a chance, and we have to open doors for the next generation.

Our conversation made it clear: while Black cinema has come a long way, there’s still more to be done. Whether it’s pushing for originality, uplifting new voices, or uniting as a creative community, these students see the future of Black film as one rich with potential—and they just might be the ones to help shape it.

Don Georgevich's Interview No-Gos

Picture yourself sitting across from a prospective employer, your palms a little sweaty, your heart pounding. Even though you've prepared for this, one poorly chosen remark could ruin your chances. A seasoned job interview coach with more than 20 years of experience, Don Georgevich, stresses the need of avoiding specific phrases that may unintentionally ruin your interview. "5 Dangerous Things to Avoid Saying In a Job Interview," Georgevich's enlightening video, lists important things to avoid saying in an interview.

Who is Don Georgevich?

According his website, he is "an expert author and leading authority in job interviewing and resume writing. He specializes in helping ordinary people sharpen their skills so they get hired for the jobs they want."

 Here's his 5 Dangerous Things To Avoid In A Interview

Number One (0:20):

Don't talk bad about your previous employer or company.

-Talking bad about a prior company or employer are immediate red flags.

Rather than blaming others, turn these bad situations into challenges or lessons that you were able to overcome and discuss how it has strengthened you.

Number Two (2:25):

Don't say, "I'll do anything,"

-Saying statements like this reeks of desperation which does not sit well with employers.

Make them aware of your goals and ambitions and specify how your qualifications would fit the position. Remember to focus instead of panicking; use your nerves to propel you and not hinder you.

Number Three (4:11):

DO talk about what you are (fast starter, etc) let them what you have done, not what you will do.

-Instead of telling your possible only about yourself, trying to provide stories that directly illustrate you applying the traits.

Discuss true personal stories and your achievements. Use this time to give an example of how you've demonstrated your ability to pick things up quickly rather than just stating it as you are introfucing yourself.

Number Four (5:38):

Don't say you don't know how to do something.

-Statements like this illustrates to potential employers can really hinder your interview as it is a conversation killer.

Being flexible and adaptable is more important than knowing all the answers to all of the questions; remember that you're human, there's no such thing as a perfect interview.

Number Five (7:44):

Don't ask, "What do you do here?"

-Prior to the interview, do your own research on the company; to employers, this is a sign of readiness, leadership, and initative.

Final Takeaway

Interviews for jobs need both preparation and performance. Don Georgevich's expert guidance and advice acts as a reminder that how five minor mistakes can significant impact that outcome of your job. Knowing what NOT to say is the first step towards projecting confidence and competence.