Watch The Polymath, or The Life and Opinions of Samuel R. Delany, Gentleman | MoMA Virtual Cinema Streaming

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Held on Tue, Jun 1, 2021, 12:00 p.m.–Sun, Jun 6, 2021, 12:00 p.m.

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The Polymath, or The Life and Opinions of Samuel R. Delany, Gentleman. 2007. United States. Directed by Fred Barney Taylor. Courtesy the filmmaker

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The Polymath, or The Life and Opinions of Samuel R. Delany, Gentleman. 2007. United States. Directed by Fred Barney Taylor. With Delany. 75 min.

Delany brings his literary star power to this autobiographical documentary, describing his craft and personal history from his perspective as a gay Black man. Recalling a lifetime dedicated to creative self-expression, he comments on the racism and conformity he bettered and candidly details the fulfilling Queer subcultures he explored. Director Taylor’s deft editing of childhood home movies, interviews shot in the author’s book-lined writing spaces, and abstract cityscapes capture a singular life.

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This film accompanies Carte Blanche: Samuel R. Delany.
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