As present-day abolitionists, the filmmakers in this program push and probe their political commitments to, as Toni Cade Babara says, “make the revolution irresistible.” In form—through interviews, verité, animation, and sonic experiments—in content—of movement elders, revolutionary leaders, remixed archival footage, and prison uprisings real and imagined—and in practice—of collaborating, organizing, making, and circulating work—they recognize that art alone cannot transform the conditions that produce carceral violence. And so they infuse their work with the joys and sorrows of political possibility.

Drawing inspiration from George Jackson and the George Jackson Brigade’s embrace of both love and struggle—and their entanglement in the slow-burn of revolutionary progress—”XO & Struggle” is neither lament nor demolition. It’s a call to action, to creation. To presence, experimentation, abundance, care, and building anew. It’s the invocation of a political project at times mournful and destructive, and yet endlessly invigorated by the preciousness and creativity of human life.

Post-screening conversation with Christopher Harris, Alex Johnston, Saeedah Cook, and additional filmmakers TBA. Moderated by Emily Rose Apter.

Full program notes available on website:
https://www.spectacletheater.com/xo-struggle-ii-the-george-jackson-brigade-and-abolitionist-cinema/