Destination: Planet Negro!

Destination: Planet Negro!, released in 2013, is a provocative, fun, and thoughtful science-fiction comedy film directed by notable writer-director Kevin Willmott. Known for his thought-provoking films, Willmott employs humor as a tool to challenge societal norms and standpoints, and Destination: Planet Negro! is no exception. The movie stars Tosin Morohunfola, Danielle Cooper, and Kevin Willmott himself in prominent roles, and draws on an ensemble of talented actors to create a memorable cinematic experience.

The film's plot is hinged on the high-reaching aspirations of the Civil Rights era, combined with the future-oriented ethos of the Space Age and explains how that spirit would play out within the African American community. It sets off with a group of African-American leaders from the 1930s, who devise a novel plan to overcome the racial injustices of their era; they decide to colonize Mars and create a "Negro Planet" in an attempt to escape the ceaseless racism that permeates their daily lives.

Taking up this audacious plan are George Washington Carver (played by Willmott himself), W.E.B. DuBois, and a host of other prominent intellectuals and dignitaries who seek to pioneer a new path to equality and freedom. In a nod to the science fiction tropes of the era, the group embarks on their interstellar journey in a steam-powered spaceship, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the spirit of their time.

Drawing inspiration from The Martian Chronicles and the docudrama format, the film adds a twist to the genre as the space explorers, due to a time warp, inadvertently land in the 21st Century America. Here, they navigate the complex societal maze of today's America, confronting their perceptions of progress. Their bewilderment on modern issues such as the prominence of hip hop culture, the concept of 'post-racial' America, and the election of a Black president aptly showcases the dramatic changes in race relations and societal perspectives that have occurred since the 1930s.

Tosin Morohunfola delivers a stellar performance as "civil rights leader in training" along with Danielle Cooper, who provides an excellent portrayal of a strong Black woman inspired by Josephine Baker's illustrious persona.

What makes Destination: Planet Negro! remarkable is how it infuses levity with profound social commentary. It strikes a delicate balance, enabling the viewer to reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial equality while also enjoying the narrative's lighthearted elements. The humorous encounters, witty one-liners, and satirical takes on racial stereotypes provide a refreshing perspective on serious topics. Consequently, the film becomes not just a narrative of the past, but a critique of the present, challenging the viewer to contemplate the still pervasive racial disparities and societal prejudices.

In the directorial canon of Willmott, best known for his collaborations with Spike Lee and his ability to deliver hard-hitting historical satires and dramas, Destination: Planet Negro! stands out for its inventive style, thought-provoking dialogue, and razor-sharp commentary on race and society. It's a must-see for anyone looking for a critically engaging film that challenges societal norms with wit and humor.

The movie does not shy away from tackling complex racial issues or exposing the deep-seated racial prejudice in American society. However, it manages to do so in a way that is still accessible and entertaining, provoking thought, and encouraging the examination of our own prejudices and assumptions.

Through its journey across time and space, Destination: Planet Negro! pushes the envelope, revealing the stark realities of American race relations and the enduring resilience of the African American community. It invites the audience to critique the path we, as a society, have tread, and more importantly, the path we have yet to cover. It is a film that charms with its humor, engages with its social commentary, and, much like its protagonists, continuously pushes boundaries.