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Examining slavery in American film

flickr/Boston Public Library

Slavery is a part of American history, but a part people are uncomfortable speaking about.  So, contemporary conversations about slavery often play out on the big screen. 

And, apparently, we still have a lot to say about it. Seven new films about slavery are slated to come out in 2013.

Jeff Wray is a filmmaker and Michigan State University professor who specializes in film studies and black American cinema.  He joined Current State’s Emanuele Berry to discuss slavery films coming out this year and films of the past.

Emanuele and Wray started their conversation with the classic 1915 film, "Birth of a Nation."

NOTE: This interview includes clips that may be offensive to some listeners.

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