Riverbend Restored

Directed by Sam Firstenberg (Original: USA 1989; Restored - USA 2024, 96 mins).

In 1989 a small independent film was made in Texas that challenged the status quo and showed African-Americans fighting back against their oppressors. After a brief theatrical run and home video release, it all but disappeared…until now.

In a small Georgia town white supremacy and black power come face to face. Major Quinton (STEVE JAMES) and his men are on the lam, running from a rigged court martial. They seek refuge in the small Georgia town of Riverbend where a cruel white sheriff (TONY FRANK) is terrorizing the black population. Bell (MARGARET AVERY) becomes their only ally in a town on the verge of exploding. Quinton is enraged by the injustice he sees. He mobilizes a secret army and formulates a brilliant plan. In one bold stroke, on one fateful night, the fight for freedom and human rights will be decided. Soon the entire world will know the name—RIVERBEND.

Virtually unseen for over 30 years, this brand new 2K restoration (made from rare 35mm elements) was supervised by director Sam Firstenberg (American Ninja) and produced by Reelblack.

Content warning: graphic shooting; racist slurs; implied sexual assault

Preceded by

The War Torn Drum

Directed by Derek A Ham (USA 2023, 12 mins).

In the late 1860’s, a U.S. Marshal bonds with a post Civil War drummer boy in their search to track down a wanted criminal.

Q&A to follow.