Honoring the Legacies of Jazz and Cinema: The African American Film Festival’s Opening Night Featured Josephine Baker and a Live Jazz Performance.

February 13th, 2025

The 19th Annual African American Film Festival kicked off on February 13 (My Birthday LOL) and will continue to the 16th in beautiful West Palm Beach, Florida, at the Rinker Playhouse within the Kravis Center, was a remarkable celebration of culture, history and artistry. This year’s theme, Jazz Legends and Cinematic Icons, set the stage for an unforgettable opening night that beautifully captured the spirit of African American cinema.

The highlight of the evening was the screening of the silent film Siren of the Tropics, featuring the iconic Josephine Baker. This film, which dates back nearly a century (99 years to be precise), transports viewers to a time when Baker was emerging as one of the world’s first Black female talent’s, which starred with white artists on the same stage. The experience was elevated by a live original score composed and performed by the talented Etienne Charles, whose music brought a vibrant and contemporary resonance to the 86-minute silent film’s historical context.

Dr. Terri Francis, a renowned scholar from Miami, added immense value to the event with her insightful commentary. Her recent publication, Josephine Baker’s Cinematic Prism, along with her video essay, Josephine Baker Watches Herself, provided crucial background and context that deepened our understanding of Baker’s impact on film and society. Dr. Francis’s presence not only educated the audience but also encouraged us to engage critically with the film, prompting us to reflect on the challenges Baker faced as a pioneering Black female artist in a largely white industry.

As I sat through the screening, I found myself grappling with questions about race, gender and fame in the early 20th century. What must it have been like for Baker, a Black woman, to navigate the complexities of fame during her time? How did her artistry challenge societal norms? The silent film and the accompanying live score created an atmosphere of ups and downs of emotions throughout the night.

The festival’s setting in the charming playhouse enhanced the experience, with its beautiful building providing a fitting backdrop for this celebration of Black cinematic history. The blend of live performance and classic film was a testament to the festival’s commitment to honoring the past while engaging with conversation about the world of art.

The 19th Annual African American Film Festival delivered an enriching experience for myself, my family, and a number of spectators that were there for a lesson that featured a Jazz Legend in Etienne Charles and a Cinematic Icon in Josephine Baker that highlighted the legacies of jazz and cinema. It was a night of education, reflection and celebration. The evening left a lasting impression on all who attended. I look forward to the remaining days of the festival, eager to continue exploring the rich narratives and artistic expressions that define African American cinema. Please take some time and attend this festival. It’s a cultural moment that deserves to be experienced.