Black excellence is undeniable. Black people have showcased their unmatched talent, intellect, creativity, and prowess in countless fields. Yet, it’s a reality that many of these achievements often go unnoticed or underappreciated, especially in genres like Horror, where the intersections of Black experiences and themes aren’t frequently highlighted. One significant area worth shining a light on is the contributions of Black women to the horror genre, particularly as directors. Let’s take a moment to recognize and amplify the works of five outstanding Black women directors who have made remarkable contributions to Horror.
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Eloyce Gist
Eloyce Gist remains a hidden gem in horror, especially considering the magnitude of her contributions. The fact that her name isn’t as celebrated as some of her contemporaries may stem from multiple reasons. The era in which she worked, alongside her husband, was undoubtedly challenging for Black creatives, given the societal constraints and racial prejudices that persisted. Their unique cinematic voice might not have aligned with the mainstream sensibilities of the time, making their projects less known to wider audiences.
Another factor to consider is the targeted demographic for their films. The specific targeting of perhaps a more niche audience might have limited the widespread recognition of their work. This, however, doesn’t diminish the value or significance of what she and her husband accomplished.
Diving deeper into Gist’s career, her 1930s feature, “Hellbound Train,” is noteworthy. “Hellbound Train,” wasn’t just a routine project but a daring endeavor, pushing boundaries and challenging norms. And Gist wasn’t merely a figurehead — she was deeply involved in various aspects of the filmmaking process. Her roles as a co-director, co-producer, screenwriter, and film editor showcase her multifaceted talents and dedication to her craft.
Gist’s position as a Black female director in a genre and era predominantly dominated by white males symbolizes her resilience and groundbreaking spirit. She wasn’t just participating but leading, creating, and shaping narratives in a space where her presence was a rarity. And that’s astounding.
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Kasi Lemmons
Impassioned followers of cultural cinema are acutely aware of the release of the 1987 horror thriller “Eve’s Bayou.” While it didn’t follow the typical tropes of monsters and ghouls that many associate with the horror genre, its terror resided in its deep subtextual layers, addressing themes rooted in chillingly real scenarios embellished with a touch of the mystical. A powerhouse cast featuring the likes of Lynn Whitfield, Samuel L. Jackson, Jurnee Smollett, and Debbie Morgan breathed life into this eerie narrative.
However, what might come as a revelation to some is that the guiding force behind this cinematic marvel was Kasi Lemmons, a Black female director. Lemmons wasn’t a stranger to the world of suspense and horror. Her repertoire included involvement in iconic films like “Silence of the Lambs” and “Candyman.” Yet, with “Eve’s Bayou,” she transitioned to the director’s chair, sculpting a narrative that remains haunting to this day.
“Eve’s Bayou,” with its compelling screenplay and masterful direction, is a testament to Lemmons’ outstanding contribution to cinema, deserving every ounce of acclaim.
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Nia Dacosta
While there aren’t numerous horror films with Black protagonists that have achieved cult status, “Candyman,” starring the formidable Tony Todd, is a standout exception. When the news broke that Jordan Peele would breathe new life into this classic, it garnered significant media attention. Yet, few were aware that Nia DaCosta was not only a co-writer for the 2021 reimagining but also took the helm as its director.
While opinions on “Candyman” may vary, its excellence as a cinematic work is undeniable, showcasing DaCosta’s incredible directorial prowess. As it should be, her talent didn’t go unnoticed. This work led to her next monumental assignment: directing Marvel/Disney’s upcoming film, “The Marvels,” a groundbreaking achievement and a beacon of inspiration for many.
Mariama Diallo
For those unfamiliar with the niche of socially driven horror films, especially those without massive budgets, the name Mariama Diallo might not ring a bell. Yet, her 2022 drama-horror-mystery film “Master,” which debuted on Prime, is an exceptional exploration of themes such as microaggressions, institutional racism in academia, assimilation, and the haunting shadows of the antebellum era. Not only does it have a distinct creepiness but gives it its viewers something to ponder. However, this is far from Diallo’s first venture in the industry.
Diallo had previously ventured into directing with her 2018 short, “Hair Wolf.” Her filmmaking journey, however, began long before that. As recounted by Filmmakers Magazine, a teenage Diallo, at just 14, stood inside a New York Blockbuster and felt a calling to create films. Fast forward to today, and she has realized her dream and made a significant mark in the industry, especially within the horror genre. Her intrinsic passion is evident in her words: “Horror and sci-fi is all that would get me going. Black horror—there’s a rich vein yet to be fully explored.” Indeed, her words couldn’t be truer.
Nikyatu Jusu
Completing this list is the talented Nikyatu Jusu, the mind behind the 2022 horror thriller, “Nanny.” Led by Anna Diop, this chilling tale revolves around an immigrant nanny who starts working for what appears to be a typical family, only to discover sinister secrets lurking beneath. The film’s tagline poignantly reads, “The Nann must confront a hidden truth that threatens her fragile American Dream.”
Originating from Sierra Leone, Jusu is not just a filmmaker but an accomplished scholar, holding degrees from Duke University and NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Among her accolades is the esteemed Spike Lee Fellowship Award. While “Nanny” might not be everyone’s cup of tea, its achievements are undeniable. Not only did it clinch a win at the Sundance Film Festival, but as highlighted by Variety, “Nanny” made history by being the first horror film to take the top award.
Furthermore, Jusu joins an elite group, being only the second Black woman to secure this win after “Clemency” director Chinonye Chukwu in 2019. These accolades testify to Jusu’s exceptional talent in film and peg her as a director to watch.
So, dive into a world of untapped brilliance and suspense this spooky season! The vast reservoir of talent is ever-expanding, and often, inspiration springs from those trailblazers who’ve left indelible marks. These incredible Black women, though just a sliver of a vast talent pool, illuminate the path for many more. So, this October, why not venture beyond the ordinary? Experience the riveting stories, the chilling narratives, and the unparalleled artistry of Black female directors