Watch Nationtime

Nationtime is a documentary film from 1972 that chronicles the National Black Political Convention, held in Gary, Indiana, in 1972. The film highlights various speeches and discussions that took place amongst prominent Black leaders in attendance, and documents the various issues and challenges facing Black Americans at the time. Directed by William Greaves, the film features appearances by a number of influential figures in the Black community, including Amiri Baraka, Angela Davis, Bobby Seale, and Richard Hatcher. Through their speeches and conversations, the film offers a powerful portrayal of the strength and resilience of the Black community, and the deep-rooted desire for political and social change.

The convention itself was organized in response to the Democratic National Convention of 1968, which had been marred by violence and unrest. Seeking to present a united front and articulate a clear political agenda, Black leaders from across the country gathered in Gary to discuss issues ranging from police brutality to economic injustice to the Vietnam War.

Throughout the film, we hear from a wide range of voices, each offering their own perspective on the challenges facing Black Americans. Amiri Baraka, for example, delivers a fiery keynote speech in which he calls for a new kind of politics, one that is rooted in Black self-determination and resistance. Similarly, Charles C. Diggs Jr., a Congressman from Michigan, speaks about the need to build coalitions and work within the political system to effect change.

Perhaps the most powerful moment in the film comes during a speech by Richard Hatcher, the first Black mayor of Gary. Addressing the assembled delegates, Hatcher speaks frankly about the challenges facing Black communities across the country, and issues a rallying cry for action and change. "We need to stop waiting for someone else to solve our problems," he says. "We need to become our own liberators."

Overall, Nationtime is a powerful and timely documentary that shines a light on an important moment in American history. By offering a glimpse into the conversations and debates that took place at the National Black Political Convention, the film provides a compelling portrait of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in America. And by showcasing the voices and perspectives of Black leaders from across the country, the film demonstrates the strength and diversity of the Black community, and the urgent need for political and social change.

Nationtime is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6 and a MetaScore of 77.