Leslie Odom Jr. | Family Issue 2019

ist in a society where our beginnings were subdued to chains and
shackles. I never get tired of seeing these films. America needs to
stay on the metaphorical couch to tackle the pain that slavery has
caused and to pinpoint exactly what it is. There is room for films
like Django, 12 Years a Slave, and there is room for Harriet. We may
not be able to stomach them all but America needs to stay on this
psychiatrist’s couch. I understand that people are tired of seeing
slave films told a certain way. However, in Harriet, you pick up on
slave narratives, the ingenuity, the brilliance, and the courage it
took for every single one of them to escape. And each party has a
significant role and story that should be told.”
Like some, I too had my apprehensions toward seeing
another slavery themed movie and wasn’t afraid to share my concerns
with Leslie. I began by stating my appreciation as a journalist
to have been selected to screen the film in advance and
informing him of my observation of the lack of diversity in the
screening room, adding that I was one of three Black faces in attendance.
This prompted me to ask Mr. Odom as a participant
and lead actor on this project to explain who the film was indeed
intended for. “Not to shirk the responsibility of answering this,”
said Odom. “I had to get used to this medium [referring to the
film industry] coming from theater. This is a filmmaker–medium.
It’s more about the director and editor. They are hugely important.
For example, some directors are making films that speak to
FAMILY 2019 / 13