The Best of the Acapulco Black Film Festival

Rating:
Summary: The Best (?) of the Acapulco Black Film Festival
Review: As a strong supporter of independent black filmmaking, I purchased this DVD. However, it fell short in a number of areas, especially when compared to Afrocentricity, a compilation of short films from indie black directors released back in 1999/2000. First, there were only 4 films as compared to 7 in Afrocentricity. This made me feel like I didn't get enough value for the money I put out. Also, from what I know about the Acapulco Festival, I doubt these shorts represented the very best of the festival. Second, there were no bonus features such as a director's commentary, outtakes, "making of" docus and other items. While 3 of the 4 directors did a quick introduction of their film, they didn't offer any info. on their experiences making their films nor any insights into their films' topics/themes. Lastly, they really didn't put Lisa Raye to work enough. I expected her to interview the directors, explore the state of independent black filmmaking or at least move around a bit. All she basically did was read cue cards at the beginning and end of the DVD while sitting down and it was quite obvious that she was reading. Overall, I was disappointed and expected more from a festival with Acapulco's reputation.