Stamped from the Beginning

This review is by someone who is not an American, but has lived in the US for 8 years during her PhD and Post-doctoral education. She is not black. I see reviews here that sometimes has nothing to do with the material, but has much to do with a person's political views. I wished to put who I am out there to say that this review is not the product of my political stance or belongingness. Here it goes: I liked this documentary, and will rewatch it. The other reviews talk about horrible editing. It did not bother me. Sometimes, living in the moment, we don't realize that historical narratives are continuously being rewritten, and edited. It is painful to revisit a past, where there is so much pain. But it should be revisited so that we understand the root of current problems and why they are so persistent, complex and challenging. We inherit great things from our ancestor and also some things we may not be too proud of. That is OK, as long as we strive to be a better version of ourselves. This is what the documentary left me with. I enjoyed it immensely. Oh! Also I now have the urge to read more of Maya Angelou.

This was one of the most creative and informative documentaries about racism in our country. The various clips and illustrations and music made the film engaging. The narrators were incredible in their presentation and accuracy. The author of the book that was the basis for this film delved into the history behind the history. It shows that racism is a false construct and needs to be confronted on a daily basis. I am recommending this to my children and my friends. My hope is that this will help change people's attitudes and help us all realize that prejudice is still very present in our country and culture. These very learned scholars and presenters enlightened my awareness and I am deeply grateful they made this documentary.

I rarely if ever post on this platform, but this one really went on my nerves. The perception provided in this documentary is great. The information you get is educational and at times mind blowing (especially for those ill-informed of USA history).

However, the production, editing, scene cutting, jumping from animation to another and then leaving viewers longing with the animated scenery mixed with some modern songs that just do not sit right is something that diminished the very purpose of this ever so important narrative. It is almost impossible to endure such editorial horror without some skips. I think it requires more formal and serious approach corresponding to the knowledge of acting narrators and topic itself.

Must see for all to understand the real history of the United States and how it's wealth and European wealth is built on the backs and blood of Atlantic slave trade and colonization. The film is not complete but should inspire everyone esp young people to learn about institutions and systems that propagate injustice and oppression. Wars in Middle East, Africa, civil unrest, poverty, mass shootings, mass incarceration, migrant crisis etc can be better understood in light of racist doctrines and policies created by Europeans since the 16th century. Read about the Doctrine of Discovery and Age of Exploration.

First off, the 'Half-Truths' review said that the movie said that Portugal had the start of slave trade which is false but the movie actually said it was that it (to the person) was the start of the TRANS-ATLANTIC slave trade.

Anyway, the actual movie is actually pretty good. It brought up points and information that (at least to me) made me want to look into the topic even further.

However, the editing was a bit cluttered but the mix of animation, video and hard-hitting narration and photos of objects/pictures/cartoons of the time. Also the music was a nice mix of hip-hop, dramatic classical, etc....

In conclusion (yes I know I'm writing this like a high school essay, let me be), the movie is pretty amazing and you should at least give it a chance.