Being Black Enough ( 2017 )

Deconstructing Identity: A Deep Dive into Being Black Enough (2017)

Being Black Enough, released in 2017 and directed by Nadja Alerte, isn't just another coming-of-age story. It's a poignant and nuanced exploration of identity, community, and the pressures of conforming to societal expectations. The film delves into the complexities of navigating black identity in a predominantly white environment, while simultaneously challenging the often-rigid and exclusionary definitions of blackness within the black community itself. Through the eyes of its protagonist, Tracy (portrayed with remarkable vulnerability by Ashley Jackson), the film invites viewers to confront their own preconceptions about race, class, and belonging. This article will analyze the key themes, narrative techniques, and social commentary that make Being Black Enough a significant contribution to contemporary cinema.

Synopsis

Tracy, a bright and ambitious African-American teenager, lives in a predominantly white, affluent suburb. She attends a predominantly white private school and her life revolves around academic excellence and fitting in with her white peers. While Tracy is comfortable in her environment, she is acutely aware of being one of the few black students at her school. Her carefully constructed world is disrupted when she meets Jamal (played by Diontae Black), a charismatic and confident young man from the inner city, during a summer program for underprivileged youth. Jamal challenges Tracy's perceived assimilation and exposes her to a different facet of black culture, forcing her to question her own identity and sense of belonging. As Tracy navigates her evolving relationship with Jamal and grapples with the expectations of her family, her friends, and herself, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately redefining what it means for her to be black enough.

Exploring Key Themes

The film tackles several complex and interconnected themes, providing a multi-layered understanding of the black experience. These themes resonate deeply with audiences and spark important conversations about identity, prejudice, and social mobility.

The Politics of Blackness

The central conflict of Being Black Enough revolves around the subjective and often contradictory definitions of blackness. Tracy is constantly confronted with the notion that her upbringing and social environment somehow invalidate her black identity. Jamal initially sees her as acting white, an accusation laden with historical baggage and social judgment. The film doesn't endorse this simplistic view, but instead uses it as a springboard to explore the nuances of black identity. It highlights how socioeconomic status, geographic location, and personal preferences can all be unfairly used to determine someone's black authenticity. The film argues that there is no single, monolithic way to be black and challenges the restrictive gatekeeping that often occurs within the black community.

Assimilation vs. Authenticity

Tracy's journey is a struggle between assimilation and authenticity. She has, to some extent, assimilated into the predominantly white world she inhabits, adopting certain mannerisms and cultural references. However, this assimilation comes at a cost – a perceived loss of connection to her roots and a feeling of being caught between two worlds. Jamal represents a different path – one of embracing and celebrating black culture without apology. Tracy must ultimately decide how to balance her desire for success with her desire to remain true to herself. The film suggests that these two goals are not mutually exclusive, but require conscious effort and a rejection of societal pressures to conform.

Code-Switching and Double Consciousness

The film implicitly addresses the concept of code-switching, a common experience for many minority groups. Tracy consciously and unconsciously adjusts her language, behavior, and appearance depending on the social context. She presents one version of herself to her white school friends and another version to Jamal and his friends. This constant shifting can be emotionally draining and contribute to a sense of alienation. Furthermore, the film touches upon W.E.B. Du Bois's concept of double consciousness, the feeling of always looking at oneself through the eyes of others, as a minority in a majority culture. Tracy is acutely aware of how she is perceived by both white and black communities, adding another layer of complexity to her identity formation.

Class and Social Mobility

Class differences play a significant role in shaping the characters' experiences. Tracy's affluent upbringing provides her with opportunities that are not available to Jamal, who comes from a less privileged background. The film acknowledges the systemic inequalities that exist and how these inequalities can affect one's access to education, social networks, and overall quality of life. However, it also avoids simplistic portrayals of class, showing both the advantages and disadvantages of Tracy's privileged background. The film challenges the idea that upward mobility necessarily requires abandoning one's cultural identity.

Narrative Techniques and Cinematic Style

Nadja Alerte employs several effective narrative techniques to convey the film's themes and engage the audience.

Character-Driven Narrative

The film's strength lies in its character-driven narrative. The focus is on Tracy's internal struggles and her evolving relationships with the people around her. The plot unfolds organically as Tracy confronts her own biases and learns to embrace her authentic self. The supporting characters, particularly Jamal and Tracy's parents, are well-developed and contribute to the overall richness of the story.

Realistic Dialogue and Authenticity

The dialogue in Being Black Enough feels remarkably realistic and authentic. The conversations between Tracy and her friends, as well as her interactions with Jamal, reflect the way teenagers actually speak and think. The film avoids overly simplistic or preachy dialogue, allowing the characters to express their thoughts and feelings in a natural and relatable manner. This authenticity contributes to the film's overall credibility and emotional impact.

Subtle Symbolism

While not overtly symbolic, the film utilizes subtle visual cues and motifs to reinforce its themes. For example, Tracy's clothing choices often reflect her attempts to fit in with different social groups. The setting of the film – the contrast between the affluent suburbs and the inner city – serves as a visual representation of the class divisions that separate the characters. These subtle symbolic elements add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Social Commentary and Impact

Being Black Enough is more than just a personal story; it's a powerful piece of social commentary that addresses important issues related to race, identity, and belonging. The film challenges viewers to examine their own preconceptions about blackness and to consider the pressures that minority groups face in navigating a predominantly white society.

Challenging Stereotypes

The film actively challenges harmful stereotypes about black people. It presents a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique personalities, experiences, and perspectives. By showcasing the complexities of black identity, the film dismantles the notion that all black people are the same or that they must conform to a narrow set of expectations.

Promoting Empathy and Understanding

By inviting viewers into Tracy's world, the film promotes empathy and understanding. It allows audiences to see the world through the eyes of a young black woman struggling to find her place. This empathetic connection can help to bridge divides and foster greater understanding between different racial and cultural groups.

Sparking Conversation and Dialogue

Being Black Enough is a film that sparks conversation and dialogue. It raises important questions about identity, authenticity, and the pressures of assimilation. The film is often used in educational settings and community forums to facilitate discussions about race, prejudice, and social justice.

Character Analysis Table

Thematic Breakdown Table

Conclusion

Being Black Enough is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a valuable perspective on the complexities of black identity in contemporary society. Through its nuanced characters, realistic dialogue, and subtle symbolism, the film explores themes of assimilation, authenticity, and the politics of blackness. By challenging stereotypes, promoting empathy, and sparking conversation, Being Black Enough makes a significant contribution to our understanding of race, class, and belonging. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection and encouraging a more inclusive and understanding world. The film’s impact extends beyond entertainment, serving as a vital tool for dialogue and education in a world grappling with issues of identity and social justice. Alerte's direction ensures that the film remains accessible and relatable, making its message all the more potent.