Spencer Bell, Nobody Knows My Name. Issue 1 (24th May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Greene, Liz
• Is Part Of: Open screens. Volume 5:Issue 1(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-05-24
• Subjects: Motion pictures -- Periodicals; Television broadcasting -- Periodicals; Motion pictures -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Television broadcasting -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 791.43
• DOI: 10.16995/os.8160
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2516-2888

Abstract

Abstract : Spencer Bell, Nobody Knows My Name is an audiovisual essay about the racist depiction of an African American actor, Spencer Bell, in the first feature length film of The Wizard of Oz (Larry Semon, 1925). The audiovisual essay showcases Bell's performance, by only selecting and using sequences that he is in. I decided to not only reverse the order of the sequences but also to reverse the footage within the clips themselves. Through reversing the footage from the film, we see Bell's representation unfold, reanimating his performance. By focussing solely on Bell, the audiovisual essay draws attention to him as an actor and celebrates his talent whilst also illustrating the constraints in which he was working. It does so to ask questions about representation in cinema and more critically to unpick the racist imagery evident onscreen. The audiovisual essay argues that it is important to watch such depictions in order to challenge them, and to confront racist imagery. In focussing in on Bell, it is hoped it will prompt audiences to seek out his work and watch his performances in full and, in turn, understand the institutional racism he was working under.