Finance

Ashley Clark, a respected critic and curator at the Criterion Collection, has released his new book, "The World of Black Film: A Journey Through Cinematic Blackness in 100 Films." This extensive work aims to provide an indispensable guide for film enthusiasts eager to explore the diverse and rich landscape of Black cinema, extending its scope beyond American productions. Clark's personal journey as a young cinephile in 1990s South London, where he faced limited access to Black films, fueled his desire to create a comprehensive and accessible resource. He recounts the intensive research required to delve into the world of Black film, a process he likens to a demanding profession.

The book challenges the prevailing American-centric view of Black cinema, showcasing a global perspective that includes co-productions and international collaborations. Clark highlights his work at Criterion, where he has championed the restoration and wider distribution of films like Zeinabu irene Davis's "Compensation" and Cauleen Smith's "Drylongso," making them accessible to new generations of viewers. He also discusses the historical underrepresentation of Black films in mainstream awards, emphasizing that their enduring artistic value transcends critical recognition. Clark celebrates contemporary successes like Ryan Coogler's "Sinners," viewing its commercial and critical acclaim as a testament to the unmet demand for intelligent and culturally significant Black filmmaking.

A Personal Journey Through Black Cinema and the Vision for Its Future

Ashley Clark, the esteemed critic and programmer for the Criterion Collection, presents his latest work, "The World of Black Film: A Journey Through Cinematic Blackness in 100 Films." Clark reveals that his primary audience for this ambitious undertaking was his 16-year-old self, a budding film enthusiast in 1990s South London who craved wider exposure to Black narratives on screen. His personal experience of navigating a limited landscape of Black film options propelled him to undertake extensive research, transforming his passion into a dedicated pursuit of cinematic knowledge. This foundational experience shaped his understanding of the gaps in accessible resources for learning about Black cinema and ignited his commitment to creating a comprehensive and engaging guide for future generations.

Clark's book offers an essential resource for anyone interested in exploring Black cinema, spanning from pioneering figures like Zora Neale Hurston to contemporary directors such as Ryan Coogler. "The World of Black Film" delves into both widely recognized classics, including Gordon Parks's "Shaft" and John Singleton's "Boyz n the Hood," as well as lesser-known but equally significant works like James and Eloyce Gist's "Hell-Bound Train" and William Greaves's experimental documentary "Symbiopsychotaxiplasm." Clark's approach is characterized by a spirit of generous camaraderie rather than detached academic authority, making the content highly engaging and relatable. He frequently injects fascinating anecdotes, such as Whitney Houston's enthusiastic reaction to "Set It Off," which imbue the book with the intimate feel of a conversation with a knowledgeable and passionate film aficionado. This blend of scholarly insight and personal enthusiasm ensures the book is both informative and enjoyable, encouraging readers to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Black filmmaking.

Expanding the Canon: Global Black Cinema and its Cultural Impact

As the curatorial director at the Criterion Collection, Ashley Clark plays a crucial role in shaping the evolving canon of modern cinema. His work involves championing films that might otherwise remain unseen or underappreciated, thereby broadening the conversation around diverse cinematic voices. Clark expresses particular pride in his efforts to introduce films like Zeinabu irene Davis's "Compensation" and Cauleen Smith's "Drylongso" to a wider audience. These films, previously with limited visibility, have undergone restoration and remastering under Criterion's guidance, gaining theatrical releases, physical media distribution, and streaming availability. This initiative not only preserves important works but also allows new film enthusiasts to discover and appreciate them, demonstrating Criterion's significant impact on expanding cinematic accessibility and cultural memory.

Clark's book goes beyond simply cataloging films; it actively seeks to deconstruct the American-centric bias often present in discussions of Black cinema. He emphasizes the global nature of Black filmmaking, highlighting stories of migration, international collaborations, and co-productions between countries like the USA, Nigeria, and Brazil. This perspective underscores the idea of a "journey through cinematic Blackness" that transcends geographical boundaries and historical narratives. Clark argues that while accessibility and familiarity often lead audiences to focus on American Black history and cinema, there is a vast and rich international landscape of Black film waiting to be explored. He points to the critical role of advocates, programmers, and critics in positions of influence who can champion these works and ensure they are seen, discussed, and integrated into the broader cinematic consciousness. This commitment to uncovering and promoting previously overlooked films, like Kathleen Collins's "Losing Ground," ensures that invaluable stories and artistic expressions are not only preserved but actively contribute to a more inclusive and representative understanding of film history.

Kiehl's is currently hosting its highly anticipated Friends & Family event, presenting a golden opportunity for skincare enthusiasts to replenish their collections. During this limited-time promotion, all Kiehl's products are available at a generous 25% discount, with an even greater 30% off for brand members. This sale arrives perfectly as summer approaches, encouraging everyone to revitalize their skincare regimen.

Amidst the ever-growing array of skincare options, Kiehl's consistently stands out, upholding its legacy as a premier luxury brand. Their extensive range, catering to facial, body, and hair needs, has become a staple in countless homes due to its undeniable effectiveness. Despite recent price adjustments across the industry, this sale makes their high-quality formulations more accessible than ever.

Among the standout offerings, the Facial Fuel Moisturizer is a fan favorite, known for its ability to combat puffiness and dark circles with caffeine, complemented by vitamins C and E for optimal hydration. Another essential is the Ultra Facial Cream, a hydrating powerhouse that combines squalane and glacial glycoprotein to strengthen the skin barrier against environmental stressors and maintain lasting moisture.

For those prioritizing thorough cleansing, the Ultra Facial Cleanser provides a gentle yet effective solution, removing impurities without stripping the skin's natural oils. The Midnight Recovery Concentrate Moisturizing Face Oil offers a luxurious overnight treatment, utilizing natural ingredients like squalane, jojoba seed oil, and botanical antioxidants to reduce fine lines and rejuvenate the skin during sleep.

Targeted treatments also feature prominently in the sale. The Avocado Eye Treatment, enriched with avocado oil and beta-carotene, is specifically designed to brighten, de-puff, and improve the delicate skin around the eyes. Additionally, the Rare Earth Pore-Minimizing Clay Mask is a cult classic for deep cleansing and reducing oiliness, ensuring a refined complexion.

Addressing signs of aging, the Super Multi-Corrective Cream helps prevent premature skin aging by providing lightweight hydration. For more intensive anti-aging benefits, the Age Defender Face Cream, from Kiehl's popular men's skincare line, is an excellent choice. The Daily Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Facial Serum offers a powerful solution for diminishing fine lines and hyperpigmentation with consistent use.

Completing the comprehensive range, the Calendula Deep Cleansing Face Wash provides a high-foaming gel cleanser for a deep cleanse, preparing the skin for subsequent treatments. For body care, the Creme de Corps Body Lotion, infused with squalane, cocoa butter, and shea butter, ensures luxuriously smooth skin. Finally, the Powerful-Strength Vitamin C Serum, celebrated for its versatility, addresses a multitude of skin concerns from hyperpigmentation to fine lines, offering significant improvements for most users.

This Friends & Family event serves as an ideal opportunity to invest in premium skincare from Kiehl's. With a wide selection of proven products available at reduced prices, it's the perfect time to enhance your daily routine and prepare your skin for the warmer months ahead.