Animation, Culture, Haiti, Haitian Revolution, History 

In honor of the 200th anniversary of the Haitian Revolution, GVM presents Haiti Rising: Celebrating the First Black Republic. This compilation DVD includes two award winning films, Black Dawn and Haitian Pilgrimage.

Black Dawn: "Using cutout and other animation techniques, the filmmakers transform paintings by prominent Haitian artists into a visually exquisite tribute to the first black republic - and second independent country in the New World. Featuring hypnotic African-Caribbean rhythms and chants, solid historical background, and a vibrant animation style, this award-winning film conveys a complex social movement through a visual language accessible to everyone."

Haitian Pilgramage: "a Haitian-American family living in Boston returns to Haiti on a three-week journey to its spiritual roots. Along the way, they reunite with family and friends and discuss their African origins - and vodun's importance to their cultural survival. Finally they reach the sacred waterfall of Saut d'Eau, joining thousands of Haitians who make an annual pilgrimage paying homage to both Catholic and African deities. Included are interviews with President Jean-Bertrand Aristide and Episcopal Church leader Roger Desir. A story of pride and rediscovery, Haitian Pilgrimage inspires viewers to explore their own ethnic heritage."
 

Includes an interview with actor/activist Danny Glover, biographical sketches, photos and paintings by the artists who contributed to Black Dawn, an animated history of the Haitian Revolution of 1804, a director's commentary in which
Robin Lloyd and Doreen Kraft reflect on their experiences in Haiti and how the two films were made.

Also includes a newly revised Black Dawn Study Guide and an interview with Haitian historian Bayyinah Bello and others reflecting on the 200th anniversary of the Haitian Revolution and the birth of the First Black Republic.

Four Language Tracks:
(Black Dawn only) in English, Spanish, French and Creole.