LIVE: 'Black Panther' Wipes Away 'Birth of a Nation' Stereotypes, Says RI's Andrade-Watkins

LIVE: 'Black Panther' Wipes Away 'Birth of a Nation' Stereotypes, Says RI's Andrade-Watkins

Claire Andrade-Watkins, who is a Professor of Film and Africana Studies at Emerson College and Fox Point native, joined GoLocal News Editor Kate Nagle in studio to discuss both the success of the film "Black Panther" -- as well as its importance in overcoming the stereotypes perpetuated since the movie "Birth of a Nation" which was released in 1915. 

Opening on more than 4,000 North American screens, Black Panther grossed $242 million in its first four days, reported Variety — edging “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” and trailing only “The Force Awakens” ($288.1 million) -- and also set the record for biggest Monday ever, grossing $40.2 million domestically to squeeze past “Force Awakens” ($40.1 million), Variety says.

Cape Verdean American filmmaker and historian Andrade-Watkins, in addition to teaching at Emerson, notes among her accomplishments as being 2017 Visiting Scholar, Center for the Study of Slavery and Justice, and a Distinguished Community Practitioner & Senior Fellow, Swearer Center for Public Service at Brown University.