Review of HERO Inspired by the Extraordinary Life & Times of Mr. Ulric Cross

A Sell out screening at the BFI today for the launch of Frances-Anne Solomon's film Hero. A beautifully crafted documentary which delivers drama and emotion while telling the story of a man - and through his life - the important historical era that was at the heart of the Pan African dream. Very rarely has a film spelt out the role of the Caribbean intellectuals in helping to shape the anti-colonial struggle on the African continent so eloquently. Good writing, direction, acting and intricate editing of rich archive intercut with live acting, are all combined in this film . Given where the world is today, its so important to remember the passion that was behind the struggle for a unified African continent and its diaspora, and the forces that were determined to destroy it.

Also, perhaps its not insignificant that Ulric Cross was from Belmont!! As filmmaker Horace Ove - whose legacy in inspiring black art and film will be celebrated in the 'Get Up Stand Up' programme starting next month in London - would always correct those who described him as being from Trinidad and Tobago saying emphatically 'I am from Belmont'! I learnt from Frances-Anne today that Belmont was originally called Freetown as it was the area that was populated by former slaves.......... the rest - as they say - is history. Thank you, Frances-Anne, Lisa and all behind this film. Watch out for this film and ensure the 'younguns' see it too.