THE BLACK PANTHERS: VANGUARD OF THE REVOLUTION

Stanley Nelson’s documentary about the Black Panthers’ formation in 1967 is especially timely as we find ourselves in a new wave of racial tension and activism with the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, formed — like the Panthers — in opposition to police violence. Former members tell the story of the movement’s rise and fall, which was both militarized with guns and dedicated to social progress through free breakfast programs and medical clinics. They recount harassment their families endured for their activism as well as the big personalities of the leaders, and sexism within the organization. With written documentation flashing on the screen, retired Oakland police officers discuss how the organization was targeted by law enforcement agencies and the FBI. Not rated. 113 minutes. Center for Contemporary Arts. (Jennifer Levin)