African-American Film Series returns to Flint for 4th season

FLINT, Michigan — The fourth annual African-American Film Series hosted by Communities First Inc. kicks off this week. The series plays at the Flint Institute of Arts and is designed to inspire, inform, empower and entertain. A different film is featured each month through February. 

The event is sponsored in part by Nartel Family Foundation, NBC25, Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Flint Institute of Arts.    

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for all films with the films beginning at 7 p.m. Seating is limited to the first 300 guests. Each event includes live entertainment, food, and a panel discussion. There is a suggested donation of $5 per person.

The FIA galleries also are open during the events. Here’s a look at this year’s schedule:

• Thursday, November 15: “Brothers Hypnotic” 
For the eight young men in the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, their brotherhood is literal. They all are sons of anti-establishment jazz legend, Phil Cohran. Now grown, they make music and try to make their own way in the world. Film not rated.

• Thursday, December 13: “Pacoima Stories: Land of Dreams”
This documentary reveals the 1,500-year history of an area in Los Angeles called Pacoima. The town has been largely viewed as a hub for gangs and drug activity, but is also home to a rich tradition of pride and heritage that defines American culture. Film not rated. 

• Thursday, January 10: “The Possibility of Her”
"The Possibility of Her" is a feature-length documentary highlighting 12 women of color with non-traditional careers or passions. The film delves into each woman's personal and professional life including their beginnings, challenges, ånd their take on gender norms. Film not rated.  

• Thursday, February 14: “Love Jacked”
A sophisticated, small-town, romantic comedy centered on Maya, a headstrong 28-year-old with artistic ambitions, and her father Ed, who wants a dutiful daughter to run the family store. Ed is shocked when Maya, asserting her independence, decides to travel to Africa for inspiration and returns with a fiancé. Rated PG-13.  
Enjoy this story? Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.

Read more articles by Ashley Schafer.