Their signs read, 'I Am a Man.' It was 1968. Cameras captured thousands of African-American men, marching through the streets of Memphis, Tennessee, demanding overdue respect.But who were these men? And what did their signs mean?In the long shadow of the slaying of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the stories of the average men and women who made one of the civil rights movement's most pivotal, historic stands have long been skipped.
'I Am a Man' is set in modern-day Memphis, and follows Elmore Nickleberry — one of the original 1968 protesters — who, at 77, is continuing to drive his trash truck through the streets of downtown Memphis.In this 27-minute film, the families behind the 1968 strike speak out -- some for the first time, telling stories filled with pain, determination and sometimes even laughter.
The film introduces audiences not only to Mr. Nickleberry and his family, but to the principles which he and others adhered to as they faced seemingly insurmountable adversity, only to quietly change the course of history.Cameras also capture a surprisingly emotional moment as Mr. Nickleberry, for the first time, speaks with middle school students in inner-city Memphis about his hard but ultimately rewarding life.The uplifting soundtrack is filled with original Memphis soul music, including a new song from former Stax Records recording artist Deanie Parker.
Click here to read our "Take Five With" interview with the filmmaker.
OXFORD FILM FESTIVAL
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