The movie’s plot follows JP, a French-born Black actor struggling to get roles in an industry that seems to prioritize white actors. He decides to assemble a community of Black artists to help him organize a protest and get more visibility for their work. The project snowballs into an absurd and hilarious series of unconventional events that challenge preconceptions about race and highlight the struggles that Black creatives go through every day in predominantly white spaces.
Tout simplement noir is a unique and intriguing movie that tackles issues surrounding race and black identity in France. From the outset, the movie attempts to shatter any expectations or preconceptions that viewers may have with respect to the portrayal of Black people onscreen. The characters are multidimensional, their stories are nuanced, and the issues they face are varied and complex.
There are several standout performances in the movie, with Zadi’s JP playing the role of a man grappling with the complexities of being a Black man in France, while Anglade’s character embodies the struggles of a Black woman trying to make a name for herself in the film industry. From Fary’s perspective, the movie also touches on the struggles that second-generation Black immigrants face when trying to come to terms with their identity in a society that often views them as « different » or « other. »
One of the most significant points of the movie is the way it brings together different generations of Black performers. Throughout the film, JP is joined by a group of elder Black actors who share stories from their past and reveal the ways in which their experiences reflect the struggles that today’s Black creatives must overcome. Although the tone throughout the movie is light-hearted and comedic, the themes are relevant to the current debate on race and representation in France.
Another notable aspect of Tout simplement noir is the film’s depiction of France’s society as a whole. The movie explores the diversity of the Black community in France, and viewers get to see how the lives of the various characters intersect. The image of France portrayed in the film is not just one of a society consumed by racial tensions, but also one where Black people are forging their own paths and finding strength in each other.
At its core, Tout simplement noir is a movie about solidarity, activism, and self-expression. The film brings together a diversity of Black voices and perspectives to highlight the many challenges that Black creatives face in France. The cast is a testament to the richness and diversity of the Black experience, with individuals from various countries, backgrounds, and professions sharing their stories in the movie.
In conclusion, Tout simplement noir is a well-crafted movie that explores the complexities of the Black experience in France. It is a hilarious and entertaining film that tackles themes of race, identity, and representation with both wit and nuance. It is a testament to the power of communal action and solidarity and shows that, despite the challenges Black people in France often face, they are resilient and continue to find ways to support each other and set new benchmarks in their respective fields.