As we gear up for the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival, Bella and Nick explore the work of some of the most important figures in Black Independent Cinema and Independent Cinema in general.

These powerful voices are a huge reason why this podcast and the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival exist today - so tune in for our discussion on these bold movies.

• We start with A Symbol of the Unconquered by the legendary Oscar Micheaux. Nick and Bella discuss this impressive silent-film work by Micheaux, as well as the inspiring journey of getting the film made and distributed.
• Second, independent-film icon Melvin Van Peebles dips his toe in the studio pool with his audacious and unforgettable film, Watermelon Man.
• Finally, Cheryl Dunye takes the torch and creates a film that blends genres, presents ideas, and remains uniquely her own in her debut feature film, The Watermelon Woman.

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Shout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.