This is why I love Jennifer Lewis. She's queen of the Black comedy cult classic film.
Every July 15th is Jackie Washington Day! Robert Townsend produced this movie starring Jennifer Lewis and innumerable celebrity cameos in 1999 called Jackie's Back. I'd heard about this movie through the grapevine for at least 7 years, and always in July. Even the conversation about Jackie's Back made me laugh. Where can I find this movie!? As bad as I wanted to ingratiate myself to more blackness through film, I could not find the movie anywhere. Clips here and there, but sheesh! I figured for a while that it was just one of those things, where "you had to be there".
Thank God for Tubi
Wow, I've never said that. Especially because I just learned that Tubi is owned by FOX media. Fox frequently exploits Black media despite contradictory rhetoric and values towards our communities. Fox also produces some of our favorite programs. Who are we to divest from the Black folk whose careers depend on Fox media? I stay off Tubi... not because I don't love low budget films from emergent Black talent, but because I cannot fathom enjoying it being served on a bigotrous platter like Fox’s.
Anywho, I watched Jackie's Back and was left with a grin on my face. I will celebrate Jackie Washington Day on July 15th EVERY YEAR.
Maybe even more often because that film is an undeniable cult classic. Iconic scenes, ridiculous quotes, unforgettable songs, and celebrity cameos in rare form. It is obvious why Jennifer Lewis deserves her flowers for a full life and career of joy and realness.
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