Med Hondo’s groundbreaking film “West Indies: The Fugitive Slaves of Liberty” is finally getting the recognition it deserves with a new 4K restoration and a weeklong run at Film Forum. This unique African movie musical, shot entirely on a replica slave ship, traces centuries of French colonialism with unsparing clarity and relentless creativity.
Despite facing challenges in financing and distribution, Hondo’s work has quietly built a devoted fan base, including Oscar-winning filmmaker Barry Jenkins, who considers it one of the greatest films of all time. The film’s epic scope and darkly satirical irony compare France’s historical methods of colonialism, shedding light on the trans-Atlantic slave trade and coerced migrations that followed.
With its powerful message and daring filmmaking, “West Indies” continues to resonate with audiences today. The recent restoration and screenings at Film Forum and other venues aim to bring this important work into the wider canon of cinema. As film enthusiasts rediscover Hondo’s legacy, his impact on African cinema and the fight against racism and violence remains as relevant as ever.
