INTERVIEW: Resmaa Menakem, Vincent Ventresca, & Charles Little II on Creating The 'IMen' Series, Racialized Trauma, Henrietta Lacks + More
The Breakfast ClubSummary
A new television series titled "I'm In," co-created by Resmaa Menakem, Vincent Ventresca, and Andre Hardy, explores themes of racial identity and historical exploitation through a science fiction lens. The show draws inspiration from Ralph Ellison's "Invisible Man" and the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were used without consent for medical research. The creators aim to highlight the complexities of Black history and culture while addressing contemporary issues of medical ethics and systemic racism.
The series is designed to provoke thought and discomfort, encouraging viewers to grapple with uncomfortable truths about exploitation and identity. Menakem emphasizes the importance of storytelling that resonates with audiences without being overly didactic, aiming to create a narrative that is both engaging and enlightening. The team has completed the first season and is currently seeking funding to produce all episodes independently, avoiding traditional streaming platforms to maintain creative control.
The conversation also touches on the broader implications of technology and capitalism, particularly regarding who holds authority over advancements that could affect human consciousness and identity. The creators express a commitment to fostering relationships with their audience and collaborators, emphasizing the need for a collective approach to storytelling that honors the experiences of marginalized communities.
Show Notes
Today on The Breakfast Club, Resmaa Menakem, Vincent Ventresca, & Charles Little II on Creating The 'IMen' Series, Racialized Trauma, Henrietta Lacks. Listen For More! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BreakfastClubPower1051FM See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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