The Signifyin’ Works of Marlon Riggs: Affirmations (1990) and Anthem (1991)

Continuing my journey through Criterion’s box set of The Signifyin’ Works of Marlon Riggs, two short films from the early 90’s represent powerful declarations from the filmmaker’s legacy. From Video Librarian,

Riggs’ next two films were the shorts Affirmations (1990) and Anthem (1991), the first made from outtakes of interviews from Tongues Untied, while the second was an experimental music video.

First up, Affirmations (1990) explores the open black gay male experience through several lenses. Scenes include a young, gay, black man reminiscing about his first sexual experience, footage from Harlem’s African American Freedom Day showcasing Gay Men of African Descent’s inclusion and the homophobia they face from the crowd as they proudly march in the parade. The film concludes with voiceover from many gay black men expressing their hopes and dreams for their lives and the future of their culture.

Anthem (1991) is a nine-minute music video. Featuring six black gay artists, five writers and one singer. Beginning with Colin Robinson reading from his work, Epiphany while symbols race across the screen including the Pan-African flag, a pink triangle, and ACT UP’s Silence=Death. Words appear, Pervert the Language as two naked black, gay men kiss each other. There are roses, a Christian cross, memorial candles to commemorate those lost to AIDS, and finally Essex Hemphill reads from his American Wedding poem including the powerful line, Every time we kiss we confirm the new world coming.

These two short films continue my exploration of Riggs work. I am in awe of his talent, depth, and how topical his message remains 30 years later. 5 out of 5.

Currently The Signifyin’ Works of Marlon Riggs box set is only available on disk from your local library. I don’t say this often enough about the films I love, but this Criterion release is available on DVD or Blu-ray and would make an incredible gift to someone interested in the history of the gay black male movement in the United States or anyone interested in film history. I cherish my Blu-ray set.