Middle Passage ‘N Roots

Weaving together interview footage, dramatic vignettes and dance sequences, this briskly told documentary about the relationship African-Americans have with their hair is an enjoyable and interesting film that shades into deeper cultural significance in its examination of image-related issues. The major flaw, aside from some bad acting, is an irritating Muzak-disco beat that goes on for several long minutes in the middle of the film (thankfully replaced by other music a little later). Other than that, Middle Passage 'N Roots is a lively, frank program that will appeal to anyone who has ever struggled with image issues (try it on a room full of teen girls and see if it doesn't elicit empathetic responses). A good companion piece to Women Make Movies' similarly-themed Lockin' Up (VL-7/99), this is recommended for larger collections. Aud: H, C, P. (K. G. Schneider)