'Spotlight on Deadbeat' - BLOK

Last week Deadbeat Films were featured in the 4th Edition of BLOK’s newsletter. Taking a break from the editing process, Boris joined BLOK to answer a few behind-the-scenes questions about the team's new film, titled Reclaim Black Power. 

BLOK said: “Having collaborated with the duo, we recently discovered they were creating a documentary that follows grassroots movement Reclaim Black Power at London's BLM march.“

How has the process of collaborating with Reclaim Black Power worked? 

We wanted to offer our skills as filmmakers to help any charity, organisation or individual involved in the protest at the U.S Embassy on 7th June. Reclaim Black Lives reached out via Instagram, looking for a videographer to document their movement.

It was essential that we respected their cause and acted as subsidiary creative support; to always be respectful of what the movement wanted, not what we wanted.
 

Can you describe what it was like filming during the protests? 

The atmosphere was peaceful yet powerful. Unlike the Bristol protest, no statues were torn down, and there were even moments of great silence and stillness. For example, when all several thousand protestors sat on one knee for nine minutes in respect of George Floyd. That was very moving. As they say, 'silence is the most powerful scream'.  

BLOK Issue #04 centres around the theme 'together'. How does Reclaim Black Power explore this topic?  

One of the main messages of Reclaim Black Power is equality. How can equality be achieved without togetherness? Reclaim Black Power is an inclusive group of all races, empowering and achieving equality through focused support on more ‘struggling’ groups. They believe all races suffer different forms of oppression; however, it is in all of their best interests to help those who are struggling the most. 

What messages do you want people to take away from the documentary? 

As long as the film tells the key messages of the movement in an engaging, honest manner, then I'm happy, and my contribution is complete.

AYMAN screened as part of Refugee Week by Cambridge Assessment Refugee Support

Refugee Week: Cambridge Assessment Refugee Support - Community Screening

Wednesday 17th June 2020

Sign up for the Screening and Q&A here.