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Strange Fruit at the Speed
Jewel’s Catch One
Directed by C. Fitz
Sunday, April 30, 3 pm
“A worthy and necessary slice of history.”—Andrew Barker, Variety
Jewel’s Catch One documents the oldest Black-owned disco in America and honors the legacy of businesswoman, activist, and healer, Jewel Thais-Williams, who stood up against hate and discrimination for 42 years. Four decades of music, fashion, celebrity, and activism were centered on the L.A. club Jewel’s Catch One which served as the center for breaking down racial, social and cultural barriers. One of the original safe spaces for both the LGBTQ and Black communities, The Catch also served as a refuge for many during the AIDS crisis. As her club grew to become known as the “unofficial Studio 54 of the West Coast,” Jewel became a national leader who fought against discrimination and developed models to provide services to her clientele.
The film is a lively visual journey highlighted by exclusive interviews with Sharon Stone, Thelma Houston, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Madonna, Sandra Bernhard, Thea Austin, Jennifer Lewis, Representative Maxine Waters and Bonnie Pointer. CCH Pounder narrates this historically rich film with music from the last forty years. 2016, U.S., DCP, 84 minutes. Recommended for 13+.
An introduction and post-screening discussion of the film will be conducted by WFPL’s Strange Fruit’s co-hosts Jaison Gardner and Dr. Kaila Story.