Something Good – Negro Kiss

Still Something Special

Something Good – Negro Kiss is a landmark in the history of cinema, recognized as one of the earliest known films to depict African-American intimacy in a positive light. Produced in 1898, this silent short film is a significant cultural artifact, showcasing a tender and affectionate kiss between two African-American actors. The film stands as a counter-narrative to the prevalent racial stereotypes and negative portrayals of African-Americans in early cinema. It was directed by William Selig and featured actors Saint Suttle and Gertie Brown in a moment of genuine affection and joy.

Production and Historical Context

Something Good – Negro Kiss was produced during a time when African-Americans were largely marginalized in American society and subjected to stereotypical and derogatory representations in popular culture, including minstrel shows and blackface performances. The film's production by William Selig, a pioneer in the American film industry, marked a departure from these trends, offering a glimpse of African-American life that was devoid of caricature and rooted in humanity.

The film is believed to have been inspired by the popular vaudeville act of John Rice and May Irwin, who performed a kiss in the 1896 film The Kiss, produced by Thomas Edison. However, Something Good – Negro Kiss distinguishes itself by featuring African-American actors and by its naturalistic portrayal of their affection, a rarity in the era's cinematic landscape.

Rediscovery and Significance

For many years, Something Good – Negro Kiss was considered lost, with only written records and a handful of still photographs suggesting its existence. Its rediscovery in 2017 by Charles Musser, a film historian and professor at Yale University, marked a significant moment in the preservation of African-American film history. The film was found in the archives of the University of Southern California and has since been digitized and made available for public viewing.

The rediscovery of Something Good – Negro Kiss has been celebrated for its historical and cultural significance, offering insights into the representation of African-Americans in early cinema and challenging prevailing narratives about their portrayal. In 2018, the film was added to the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, recognizing its importance as a cultural, historical, and aesthetic work of significance.

Legacy

The legacy of Something Good – Negro Kiss extends beyond its historical context, contributing to contemporary discussions about representation, diversity, and inclusion in cinema. It serves as a reminder of the power of film to shape societal perceptions and the importance of preserving and acknowledging all aspects of film history, including those that have been overlooked or marginalized.

The film's inclusion in the National Film Registry and its availability for public viewing have ensured that it will continue to be studied and appreciated by future generations, serving as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to capture moments of human connection and affection.