One of the most influential Black filmmakers of all time passed away in his home on Tuesday night.
Melvin Van Peebles cemented his legacy with films like the radical comedy “Watermelon Man” and the blaxploitation masterpiece “Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song.” He was 89-years-old.His family, Janus Films, and The Criterion Collection all released a statement today announcing his death, stating, “In an unparalleled career distinguished by relentless innovation, boundless curiosity and spiritual empathy, Melvin Van Peebles made an indelible mark on the international cultural landscape through his films, novels, plays and music.”Melvin Van Peebles is remembered as the godfather of modern Black cinema, influencing…The post Melvin Van Peebles, Pioneer of Black Cinema, Dead at 89 appeared first on /Film.
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