A record of James Baldwin’s 1980 journey to visit the sites and speak with fellow survivors of the civil rights movement, I Heard It Through the Grapevine remains a timely and layered interrogation of American history. Baldwin’s astute reflections are a reminder of the necessity for ongoing action. As noted by the Harvard Film Archive, which restored the film in time for Baldwin’s centenary, “Unlike the ‘irrelevant’ civil rights monuments Baldwin decries for their lack of life and meaning, this film stands as a vital, moving testament to the multitude of horrors, victories and voices that make up a complicated battle that continues to evolve, but not end.” 

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