Watch Within Our Gates

Within Our Gates is a silent film from 1920 that sought to challenge and counter the damaging, racist stereotypes perpetuated by D. W. Griffith's 1915 film, Birth of a Nation. Though it was produced on a relatively low budget, it features a strong cast, led by Evelyn Preer as the protagonist, Sylvia Landry. The film begins with a stark, emotionally charged scene of a lynching, which sets the tone for the rest of the film. Sylvia Landry, a young, educated Black woman, is determined to help her people and raise money for the struggling school where she teaches. She travels north to raise funds from a wealthy white philanthropist, Mrs. Elena Warwick, who initially rejects her request for aid. However, Sylvia's persistence and earnestness eventually win over Mrs. Warwick, who agrees to donate to the school.

Throughout the film, Sylvia's backstory is gradually revealed through flashbacks, which highlight the injustices and violence she and her family have suffered due to racism. We see her parents being subjected to forced labor on a white man's farm, her father being falsely accused of theft, and her mother being raped by the white farm owner's son, who then casts her aside. This traumatic event leads to her mother's suicide and Sylvia's resulting sense of duty to help other Black people facing similar oppression.

Alongside Sylvia's story, the film features several subplots and secondary characters, including a Black man named Conrad, who is framed for a crime he did not commit and sentenced to death. Though Sylvia initially despises Conrad for his pride and selfishness, they eventually come to understand and support each other. The film also highlights the struggles of Black farmers, who are exploited by white landowners and left in poverty, and features a romantic subplot involving a couple who must navigate the difficulties of an interracial relationship.

Within Our Gates is notable for its portrayal of Black life and community, which was a rare subject in Hollywood filmmaking at the time. It showcases Black people as complex, diverse, and capable of their own agency, rather than portraying them as one-dimensional stereotypes. The film also portrays the stark realities of racism, from the systematic oppression of Black people to the brutal violence they often face. However, it also highlights the resilience, strength, and perseverance of Black people, who continue to resist and fight for their rights.

The film's production was not without challenges. Its director and writer, Oscar Micheaux, faced censorship and pressure from white distributors and exhibitors, who demanded that he cut objectionable scenes or alter the film's messaging. In response, Micheaux would often make different versions of the film for different regions or audiences. Despite these challenges, Within Our Gates remains a groundbreaking film in cinema history - a powerful statement against racism and a bold portrayal of Black life and resilience.

In conclusion, Within Our Gates is a powerful and moving film that challenges racist stereotypes and portrays Black people as complex and resilient. Its strong cast, led by the talented Evelyn Preer, and its nuanced storytelling make it a landmark in cinema history. While its subject matter can be difficult and harrowing, its message of hope and resistance is ultimately inspiring. Within Our Gates is a must-see for anyone interested in the historical and social context of Silent Era cinema, and for anyone who wants to understand the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

Within Our Gates is a 1920 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.