Resource Guide
7:34
John Akomfrah – Why History Matters | TateShots
Artist and filmmaker John Akomfrah talks about his practice as a filmmaker, his commitment to the “philosophy of montage”, his interest in archive and documentary, and the importance of history in this 7:34 minute TateShots video.
12:28
Soviet Montage: Crash Course Film History #8
Developed by the filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein in the 1920s, “montage” can refer to an early 20th-century film editing approach from the former Soviet Union that juxtaposes images during the editing process. This technique broke from more traditional narrative or linear construction by using visible cuts and deliberate ordering of shots to create new meaning and evoke emotional responses. This short educational video from PBS Digital Studios overviews its creation and the power of “the cut.”
Links
Sir John Akomfrah recommends Eyes on the Prize (Season 1), the first installment of the 1987 PBS series, which traces the same era of the Civil Rights Movement explored in his film. Learn more about Eyes on the Prize.