AT LACMA

Free Screening: The Blood of Jesus

AT LACMA

Free Screening: The Blood of Jesus

Luxuriant in its drama and featuring an all-black cast, this 1941 drama was written and directed by Spencer Williams, the actor who made his career with his garrulous and charismatic portrayal of Kingfish in the controversial Amos and Andy TV series that was pulled from CBS in its ratings prime because of its promotion of stereotypes. Nothing could be further from the characters in this film, which offers a take on the power of religion in the black community of the period. When a hunter (Williams) accidentally kills a woman, his blunder sets off a chain of events that includes a musical number that’s a de facto war between the musical forces of Heaven and Hell; it’s a dance-off squaring good (gospel) against evil (jazz). Energetic and completely likable, the cast features singers and actors who revel in the pleasure of getting to parade their talents before the camera without having to labor under the burden of playing sidekicks and domestics—the only roles offered in studio movies.

The Blood Of Jesus will be preceded by the short film, Regeneration (1923).  This is the single surviving reel of Richard Norman’s heavily censored South Seas drama. Preserved by The Library of Congress.

1941, 58 min, B&W | Written by Spencer Williams; directed by Spencer Williams; with Spencer Williams and Cathryn Caviness

Ticketing Information

Film Independent, LACMA Film Club, and the New York Times Film Club members can reserve tickets starting at 12 pm on Thursday, February 18. | Free; limit two tickets per membership. | Proof of member status is required to reserve tickets during advance reservation period.

LACMA member and general-admission tickets can be reserved starting at 12 pm on Thursday, February 25. | Free; limit two tickets.

PLEASE NOTE: Pre-reserved tickets for this event can be picked up at LACMA’s Ticket Office, located in the Hammer Building, on the day of the event—as early as 11 am. Tickets are for general, unreserved Bing Theater seating. Ticketed guests must be in their Bing Theater seat 15 minutes prior to the advertised start time or seat(s) may be released. Reservations do not guarantee entry, even with a ticket in hand. Entry is first come, first served, so please arrive early. Program and guest participation subject to change or cancellation without prior notice. Tickets are nontransferable and can only be picked up by the individual who purchased or reserved them.