Magical Negro Speaks at Baruch Performing Arts Center

In his multi-media FringeNYC performance, New York-based playwright/actor Jamil Ellis explores the concept of the "Magical Negro" character featured in films throughout Hollywood's history. From "Uncle Remus" in Disney's Song of the South to Whoopi Goldberg's psychic in Ghost to "John Coffey" in The Green Mile, these roles are thought to portray a two-dimensional black character who uses his or her special powers solely to help the film's white protagonist. Through the use of video, original music and monologue, Magical Negro Speaks explores the effects of these roles and contemplates the ways in which they'll impact future generations.