Watch Scandalize My Name: Stories from the Blacklist

Scandalize My Name: Stories from the Blacklist is a documentary film released in 1998. The film is directed by Alexandra Isles and produced by Michael Zweig and Monona Wali. It is narrated by Morgan Freeman and features interviews with actors, writers, and other industry professionals who were blacklisted during the McCarthy era. The film offers a powerful and poignant look at a dark period in American history when people were persecuted and often ruined for their political beliefs. The film unfolds through a series of interviews with people who lived through this era, as well as footage from Hollywood films and newsreels of the time.

The film begins with a brief historical overview of the events that led to the blacklist. It then moves on to the experiences of some of the people who were blacklisted, focusing on the toll it took on their lives and careers. One of the most poignant parts of the film are the interviews with actors and writers who discuss how their careers were derailed and how they struggled to make ends meet.

Throughout the film, there is a strong emphasis on the importance of free speech and artistic expression. The film highlights the ways in which the blacklisting destroyed the careers of talented actors, writers and other industry professionals who were unjustly accused of being Communists or Communist sympathizers.

One of the standout interviews in the film is with actress Rosetta LeNoire. Her discussion of the day she was subpoenaed to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee is truly powerful. She talks about how she was singled out because of her race and her association with other people who were suspected of being Communists.

Another interviewee of note is Dick Campbell, a screenwriter who was blacklisted during the McCarthy era. He talks about being forced to testify to the House Un-American Activities Committee and he discusses the impact the blacklist had on his family.

Morgan Freeman's narration is excellent throughout the film. He brings a powerful and understated presence to the film that perfectly compliments the heartbreaking stories being told. The use of archival footage throughout the film is also very effective.

The film does a great job of humanizing the people who were caught up in the blacklist. It shows the impact it had on their lives and careers, and it highlights the courage and resilience many of them displayed in the face of adversity.

Scandalize My Name: Stories from the Blacklist is a powerful and important film that illuminates a dark period in American history. It is well worth watching for anyone interested in the history of Hollywood, civil rights, or free speech. It offers valuable insights into the importance of artistic expression, and it highlights the ongoing struggle to protect the rights of artists and all Americans.

Scandalize My Name: Stories from the Blacklist is a 1999 documentary with a runtime of 54 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.