Cinema & Conversation: Screening of Will (1981)

The Museum's Center for African American Media Arts and the Center for the Digitization of African American History for a special screening of Will (1981), the groundbreaking debut film by trailblazing filmmaker Jessie Maple. Presented in collaboration with the Black Film Center & Archive at Indiana University, this newly restored classic tells a powerful story of redemption and resilience.

Set in Harlem, Will follows a recovering drug addict (Obaka Adedunyo) as he transforms his life by coaching a girls’ basketball team and mentoring a young boy on the brink of addiction. Featuring Loretta Devine in her film debut and shot through the compassionate lens of Maple’s husband, Leroy Patton, the film vividly captures Harlem’s vibrancy and challenges.

As the first independent feature by an African American woman, Will shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations. Recently inducted into the Library of Congress National Film Registry, this cinematic gem is a testament to Maple’s artistry and her profound impact on Black cinema.

The screening includes an introduction by Dr. Novotny Lawrence, Director of the Black Film Center & Archive, followed by a panel discussion featuring:

Maya Cade, Founder, Black Film Archive
Dr. Racquel Gates, Columbia University
Audrey Snipes, Jessie Maple’s daughter
E. Danielle Butler, Jessie Maple’s memoirist

Runtime: 1 hour 20 minutes

Event Photo: Film still of actors Obaka Adedunyo and Loretta Devine from Will (1981).