Taiq Nasheed, known to many as an anti-racism strategist, also happens to be a successful documentary film producer. Tariq is well known for producing and directing the successful Hidden Colors documentary film series, and is back with a new documentary about the untold history of the Haitian Revolution. It’s well documented that many have tried to come up with the resources to do a film about the Haitian Revolution, without any success. With that said, let me first congratulate and commend Brother Tariq for actually producing the film.
My review
1804 captures your interest right away. As the description suggests, 1804 is the untold history of the Haitian Revolution that goes in-depth, provides a compelling look into the strategies, motivations, and the mindset that led to Haiti, as the only slave population to successfully overthrow their oppressors. The one thing you will notice right away is how the film contains an honesty you can feel. There is discovery and uncovering of suspense all throughout the documentary. The illustrations are amazing, and the transitioning from illustrations to reenactment scenes is smooth and clean. 1804 entertains, educates and enlightens. Not only does the documentary move people emotionally, Tariq manages to educate, while refraining from creating a being boring film. Before this film, I had no idea how Marcus Garvey was influenced by the Haitian Revolution, even down to the way he dressed.
One of the compelling scenes in the film is when it highlights evangelical Christian pastor, Pat Robertson, suggesting that Haiti was cursed by God for making a pact with the devil, to free itself from French rule. “You know, the Haitians revolted and got themselves free. But ever since, they have been cursed by one thing after the other." Tariq cleverly shows the soundbite of Robertson, and then makes his point, showing how many have refused to credit the people of Haiti for orchestrating a successful revolution against their oppressors. He mocks how many would rather accredit Haiti’s defeat of multiple Western powers to the Devil instead. In 804, Tariq is able to paint a fair outlook regarding the current state of Haiti, by showing the road blocks and obstacles which were forced on Haiti by France, the United States and other nations.
In my opinion, Tariq did a great job in outlining his premise, as he successfully:
- Highlights the four primary players of the Haitian revolution: Makandal, Dutty Bookman, Toussaint Louvature, and Jean-Jacques Dessalines.
- Explains the influence of voodoo, and why it is demonized by the West.
- Addresses Wycliff Jean’s political run for office, the scandal allegations, and how he was rail-roaded by the establishment.
- Explains the impact of the Haitian Revolution in the United States, and around the world.
- Explains the current state of Haiti, and the people are being exploited and resources are being stolen from Haitians.
The relevance of the documentary is how it establishes the perseverance of the Haitian people, as a source of inspiration. Tariq somehow is able to introduce the culture and practices of the people of Haiti, in a respectful and honest way. He explains the economic and social dynamic of Haiti before the revolution, and after the revolution. This documentary removes the stereotypes created by White supremacists that Blacks are unable to govern themselves without assistance from White nations, by showing how Haiti was never given a fighter’s chance to flourish. The love for Haitian culture and people shines through in this magnificent work, and the viewers leave the theater feeling expanded. 1804 has an excitement factor that will leave people wanting to tell others about it.
If there was one negative, if any, Tariq could have spent a little more time addressing some of the strategic ways to improve the current conditions in Haiti. I give this documentary a 1up certified stamp of approval and a 4 ½ out of 5 Rating.
Below are upcoming 1804 movie screenings cities and show-times.
Birmingham England, UK--Sun. Oct. 22nd--Millennium Point Auditorium-----
Ft. Lauderdale FL--Thurs. Oct. 26th---Cinema Paradiso
Norfolk, VA--Thurs. Oct 26th Naro Expanded Cinema
Pre Order DVD Here
Tariq Nasheed on twitter: @Tariqnasheed