Experience the electrifying world of Slam, where the silver screen meets the spoken word. Twenty-five years later, with a brand new digital restoration, this 1998 film still captures the raw essence of live poetry alongside the complexities of life, love and identity.ON SCREEN: Slam
1998. Directed by Marc Levin. Runtime: 100 minutes. Rated R.
Raymond (Saul Williams) is a young Black performance poet living in Washington, D.C. who is arrested and imprisoned for a petty marijuana charge. Danger lurks around every corner, but nothing can stop him from establishing his identity, strength, and voice. In jail, Raymond meets a prison gang leader (Bonz Malone) and a writing teacher (Sonja Sohn) who inspires him to use the power of creative expression to fight for his freedom and avoid becoming another victim of the racist criminal justice system. Featuring sublime poetry and heart-wrenching realism, Slam is a testament to the importance and impact of artistic expression. Winner of the Grand Jury Prize (Dramatic) at the Sundance Film Festival and the Caméra d’Or (Best First Feature) at the Cannes Film Festival.
“Marc Levin’s Slam is a landmark film that defies easy categorization. This emotionally powerful and technically innovative film deserves to be seen on the big screen.” – Emanuel Levy, Variety
Event Venue
Tomorrow Theater, 3530 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202-1544, United States,Portland, Oregon
Tickets
