I watched Roots (1977) so you didn’t have to. Here’s my short and to-the-point review. (If you’re interested in watching me react to movies like this, subscribe to the paid tier of my Substack: $5.00 a month, $50.00 for the year.)
Rating: 10,000/10
Explain Rating:
As a Black woman in America, I know it’s a damn shame, but this was my very first time watching Roots (1977). I’m so glad I documented the experience because it was deeply impactful.
This was a much-needed break from the “white perspective” lens I’ve encountered in so many historical narratives. Until now, the only film I’d seen that deviated from that lens was Birth of a Nation (2016)—and y’all know I HATED that movie with a passion.
Watching Roots (1977) was an incredibly moving experience. I felt all the emotions: I smiled, I cried—it was extraordinary. The story filled me with immense pride.
This is a 100% must-watch, and I’ll absolutely be showing it to my children.
Shoutout to LeVar Burton for his phenomenal performance!