On Wednesday, The Knockturnal attended the New York City screening of the American Society of Magical Negroes, Starring Justice Smith, Nicole Byer, An-Li Bogan, 911’s Aisha Hinds, and Comedy legend David Alan Grier.
The screening was held at Metrograph. The film is about a man named Aren, whom Roger recruits into a secret society of magical Black people who dedicate their lives to a cause of utmost importance.
Written and produced by Kobi Libii, this film also marked his director debut. When asked what inspired him to create this film, he said it was important to respond to the black best friend character stereotype that Hollywood always portrays.
Beyond that, it was an opportunity to talk about certain experiences of his growing up as a black person in America. This film focuses on real-time issues the black community faces daily but adds a comedic approach so viewers can laugh and enjoy it.
The main character, Aren (Justice Smith), is a young, aspiring visual artist who, at the beginning of the film, is dealing with some uncomfortable interactions with white people; for example, he attends a show when a fellow attendee (a white man) assumes, he is a waiter and hands Aren his empty glass. That same night, he sees a drunk, white woman struggling to take out some money from an ATM; he goes over to assist her when she insists that he is trying to rob her.
He then meets Roger (David Alan Grier). Where they discuss the events that occurred and the role that black people play in today’s society. Where he then teleports and introduces him to the American Society of Magical Negroes. What is their objection? Simple: to make white people comfortable and understand that Black people are not a threat. However, just like in any society, there are rules. The most important rule is to put your clients first and not intervene even when feelings are involved. When Aren is assigned to match-make his two coworkers, things go from magical to chaotic.
I truly enjoyed this film. It was different, and unlike your typical Hollywood movie with a predictable ending, this one was outside the box, creative, and addressed some important issues, which I believe will spark some even more important conversations with one another. Being a woman of color myself, I found myself relating to the characters, as if Kobi had taken a part of my life and inserted it into the script. This film’s message is simple: you have a voice. It matters. Use it.
Once we finished the screening, we attended a fun after-party filled with delicious food and drinks at Ludlow House.
The American Society of Magical Negros is now playing in all theaters.
