Event Information
Putney Swope
1969 | Comedy/Satire | 85 min | R
Michigan Theater - Auditorium
Monday, Apr 10, 2017 7:00 PM
 
Part of the Cinema Revolution film series
Plays Monday, April 10 at 7:00 PM.

Robert Downey Sr. wrote and directed this satirical look at the advertising world, race in Hollywood, and the white power structure. When its chairman dies, an advertising firm's executive board must elect someone to fill the position. Each member, unable to vote for himself, casts a secret ballot for Putney Swope (Arnold Johnson), the firm's only black executive, assuming he wouldn't receive any votes from the other members. But once in power, Swope makes radical changes to the firm -- like keeping only one white employee and refusing to advertise harmful products -- all under the firm's new moniker, "Truth and Soul, Inc."

Programmer's Note

A film that launched co-curator Ira Deutchman’s creative fascination with cinema. It’s a blacksploitation film that’s a commentary on White America by a white filmmaker. It has all the trappings of Mad Men—great commentary on media, but through a black lens. Really important in terms of context of what was happening historically. Fascinating movie, and fun.

Presented by

with support from

   and   


Event Pricing
Admission Adult - $10.50
Admission Student w/ Valid ID - $8.50
Admission Senior (65 +) - $8.50
Admission Veterans/Active Duty - $8.50
Admission Child (under 12) - $8.50

 
Ticket Selection
 
Ticket Availability
Event Date Passed
Event Info
Category:Films
Cinema Revolution