Cineplex offering free online access to "Understanding Black Stories" films

Cineplex has curated a playlist of movies by Black filmmakers at no cost online as a way to help inform and empower viewers.

The collection is called “Understanding Black Stories” and it includes over 40 films.

“In a time when many are turning to movies to become informed and empowered, we want to help. This collection of important films was curated to elevate Black stories, artists, and filmmakers and spark discussion. These films are available to view at no cost,” Cineplex wrote on its website.

In a time when many are turning to movies to become informed and empowered, we want to help.

Our ‘Understanding Black Stories’ collection was curated to elevate Black filmmakers. These films are available to view at no cost on the Cineplex Store. https://t.co/y4Ifp12o8n pic.twitter.com/4TmqtaZugn

— Cineplex (@CineplexMovies) June 5, 2020

The titles include “Get Out,” “The Color Purple,” “Moonlight,” “Malcolm X,” “Selma,” “Just Mercy,” and “Hidden Figures.”

According to a tweet by Cineplex, the collection is currently available for a week, but it may be extended.

Cineplex has also said that it is covering the royalty costs associated with the collection.

This collection release comes as anti-racism marches and protests have taken place around the world following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

This weekend, demonstrations were held across Canada in cities including Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Regina.

• See also:
  • Protesters gather in Toronto for another anti-Black racism demonstration
  • Rapper Ice T shouts out Calgary for massive anti-racism protest
  • Thousands take stand against racism at massive Vancouver protest (PHOTOS)

Cineplex also participated in #BlackOutTuesday across its social media platforms last week. The company has vowed to do more to support Canada’s Black storytellers once theatres reopen.

View this post on Instagram

We support Canada’s Black storytellers and vow to do more when our theatres reopen across Canada to amplify their message. We stand proudly in solidarity with our Black team members, guests, partners and communities because Black Lives Matter. #BlackOutTuesday

A post shared by Cineplex (@cineplexmovies) on Jun 2, 2020 at 10:59am PDT

“We support Canada’s Black storytellers and vow to do more when our theatres reopen across Canada to amplify their message. We stand proudly in solidarity with our Black team members, guests, partners, and communities because Black Lives Matter,” Cineplex said on Instagram.

Viewers can check out the “Understanding Black Stories” collection here.