Film

Becoming Frederick Douglass

2022 · 54m · Documentary

In Becoming Frederick Douglass, acclaimed director Stanley Nelson and co-director Nicole London bring to life the story of an American icon. Using Douglass's own powerful, profound speeches and writing, the story retraces his journey from a man born and raised in slavery to one of the most prominent elder statesmen and inspiring voices for freedom in American history. With additional context and insight provided by historians, scholars and Douglass's descendants, the filmmakers recount the brutality and trauma of his childhood while illuminating his strength of character, defiance against the bonds of slavery and the influences that guided his lifelong quest for freedom. The most celebrated Black man of his era, Douglass's legacy and achievements continue to resonate today. His life and work still inspires activists, educators and citizens in the fight for freedom, equality and a more just American society.

Wendell Pierce

Frederick Douglass (voice)

Kenneth B. Morris Jr.

Self

John Stauffer

Self

Sarah Elizabeth Lewis

Self

Christopher Bonner

Self

Farah Jasmine Griffin

Self

Adam Goodheart

Self

Nick Bromell

Self

Derrick R. Spires

Self

Marcia Chatelain

Self

Vincent Leggett

Self

Edward Baptist

Self

Amy Murrell Taylor

Self

Gloria J. Browne-Marshall

Self

Robert S. Levine

Self

Eric Foner

Self

• Stanley NelsonDirector · Producer · Executive Producer
• Nicole LondonDirector · Producer
• Anne SeidlitzWriter
• Mark FasonEditor · Producer
• Maya Lynne RobinsonExecutive Producer

Becoming Frederick Douglass | First Look | PBS

Release date

October 11, 2022

Status

Released

Original language

English

Runtime

54m

Genres

Documentary