Our programme dedicated to Melvin Van Peebles includes this film that, while not directed by the filmmaker, was written and narrated by him. Classified X documents the representation of African Americans in film throughout the 20th century. In a tone that ranges between humour and fury, the film denounces the racism and stereotypes present in frames and excerpts of more than 70 classic films, where Black people are portrayed as violent or ignorant, as slaves, or as individuals on the margins of society. It is a hard-hitting critique of the racism perpetuated in the moving image and the impact these messages have on society.