You know that epic monologue that America Ferrera has in Barbie that spoke to women everywhere? Well, Justice Smith, in the new film The American Society of Magical Negroes, has a powerful monologue that will speak to Black people everywhere. I know it spoke to me and struck a deep chord. From the beginning director and writer Kobi Libii, in his feature film debut, gives us a relatable film that will stick with you and have you actively listening and watching how you interact with those around you.
The American Society of Magical Negroes premiered to a sold-out crowd in Park City, Utah, at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. I left the theater playing back the number of times I said sorry or moved out of the way instead of a mutual polite exchange and sharing of the snowy sidewalk.
When I first heard about this movie, I thought it was going to be a Black Harry Potter type of thing. The Hufflepuff in me was super psyched. But, what I got was something I needed to see and hear far more than quidditch with Black people. The American Society of Magical Negroes reminded me at times of Sorry to Bother You, The Hunger Games, and 2000s Spike Lee joint, Bamboozled. Not to mention, the similarities in theme to my 2023 favorites American Fiction and Stamped from the Beginning. The social commentary is relevant, necessary, thought-provoking, and genuine.
The film follows Aren (Justice Smith), a young Black artist navigating the predominantly white space he lives in. This is the story of a Black man who is invited to become a real-life Magical Negro upon the build-up and threat on his life after a string of racial microaggressions get out of hand. One day, he finds himself inducted into the American Society of Magical Negroes. The Society dedicates their lives to making white people feel comfortable and making their lives easier, using any magical means necessary.
Aren’s mentor Roger (David Alan Grier) believes Aren has what it takes to help Black people as a whole. “The happier they are, the safer we are,” says Roger. But when Aren finds himself in a love triangle with his first client (Drew Tarver) and their co-worker (An-Li Bogan), he begins to question his role and whether he should be putting white comfort ahead of his own happiness.
For those who don’t know, the “ideal” Black person in novels and films is often portrayed by white creators via the trope of “magical Negro.” It can be defined as the Black character in the film who uses their “magical” abilities to help the white lead achieve their goal. The character arc is usually limited to aiding and not for personal use or gain.
The Magical Negro trope was originally presented as a form of racial harmony but is just a reinvention of antiquated racial stereotypes. Built on prejudice and hierarchy, this trope, along with the best friend, the thug, the angry Black woman, and the domestic worker is consistently used in film. The Black character’s pain is portrayed as noble and selfless. Examples of the magical Negro include characters in The Legend of Bagger Vance, Ghost, The Green Mile, and Green Book.
The American Society of Magical Negroes is essential. It’s such a great watch. The cast is wonderful. This is one of Justice Smith’s best roles, and David Alan Grier balances comedy and drama perfectly. The satire of it all sets a powerful stage. The “funny because it’s true” saying rings through the film. And there’s just enough magic that it doesn’t make anything unbelievable. It’s a focused script that has romance and fantasy that doesn’t detract from the issues at large.
It’s a great way to have an important conversation.
The film highlights people’s daily interactions and their deep-seated beliefs about the world and their place in it. At first glance, it’s a romantic comedy, but The American Society of Magical Negroes is so much more than that. It’s motivational. It questions perceptions of what Blackness should be. The film makes you think about the micro and the macro of your interactions and beliefs. While the visual effects of the magic performed in the film are hit-or-miss, the lessons and topics remain strong.
The American Society of Magical Negroes is a must-see satire about what it means for Black people to protect and care for ourselves and each other. What does it look like to put ourselves first after caring and tending to everyone else’s needs? The film is empowering and begs us to talk about Blackness and Black characters as multi-dimensional, beyond the saving grace and beneficial slave.
Run, don’t walk to the theaters on March 15. Who wants to host a triple feature with American Fiction, Stamped from the Beginning, and The American Society of Magical Negroes?
