Codeblack Films has turned to online platform Tugg to identify new audiences for “Free Angela and All Political Prisoners,” its upcoming documentary about political activist Angela Davis. Tugg allows users to pick a film they want to see in theaters and gather support for public screenings.
Since its launch at South by Southwest last year, it has helped close to 200 films screen in more than 300 cities.
Rather than rely on someone else to start a campaign, Codeblack has partnered with Tugg to launch one of its own. Codeblack, a subsidiary of Lionsgate focused on films that appeal to urban audiences, acquired the theatrical rights to the documentary in January.
The movie opens in select cities April 5 at AMC Theaters while additional screenings at other theaters will be available through Tugg.
“Much like Angela Davis used her voice and the voices of others for change, our initiative with Tugg will allow individuals the ability to come together and share a common experience,” Jeff Clanagan, CEO fo Codeblack Films, said in a statement. “We hope that everyone takes the opportunity to join the revolution and take advantage of this unique program.”
Also: Tugg's Crowdsourcing Model Has Helped Bring 180 Films to Theaters
Davis was a leader of the Community Party USA who rose to prominence for her association with that party, her relations with the Black Panther Party and her activism on issues such as civil rights and feminism. Ronald Reagan attempted to bar her from teaching at any University of California schools in 1969, when Reagan was the state’s governor. She twice ran for vice president on the Community Party’s ticket in the 1980s. A retired professor, Davis researched topics such as feminism, African American studies, Marxism and philosophy.
“We’re incredibly excited to empower individuals and groups across the country to host their own screenings of this gripping and inspirational film,” Tugg co-founders Nicolas Gonda and Pablo Gonzalez said in a statement. “’Free Angela’ is a perfect film for local communities to rally around and participate in a conversation about social justice that is still relevant today.”
