Borderline (1930)

This month’s theme is “PORTRAITS OF THE ARTISTS” where we analyze selections from the careers of two, distinct, leading black men from film history. Our classic selections are devoted to the one and only PAUL ROBESON. We delve into another silent film from 1930 with strong modernist influence that was made in Switzerland. Paul acts alongside his wife, Eslanda, whose character had an affair with a shitty little white dude named Thorne who is literally played by Chester A. Arthur’s grandson. Some fresh techniques, unique camera angles and lesbian bartenders set this 1930s silent “art film” ahead of its time by several decades. The historic significance definitely helps the overwrought drag that occurs mid-movie but Paul Robeson certainly stands out much more breathlessly than his bohemian writer and musician co-stars. Lost until the 80s, Kenneth Macpherson’s “BORDERLINE” from 1930 is a must see for folks interested in film history and Paul Robeson. You can find it right here: https://youtu.be/VmP1A8IvwB4?si=qrDkzzz0Os3BmJuW Be a nerd and go learn something because we got a special drop tomorrow that’s gonna dumb everything down.

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