Director Sam Pollard Dives into “The League”: The Journey of Negro League Baseball
In this captivating Live Session interview for The Hype Magazine, acclaimed filmmaker Sam Pollard, renowned for his work on “MLK/FBI,” sheds light on his latest project, “The League.” Executive produced by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, and Tariq Trotter, and produced by RadicalMedia, this groundbreaking documentary delves into the triumphs and challenges of Negro League baseball during the first half of the twentieth century. The film weaves together previously unearthed archival footage and never-before-seen interviews with iconic players like Satchel Paige, Buck O’Neil, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron, who all paved the way for the Jackie Robinson era.
The League world premiered at the Tribeca Festival this June 12th and opens exclusively in AMC Theaters starting today July 7, and will be available on digital July 14.
In my conversation with Sam Pollard, we covered some of the layers in this film that went beyond the game and into community impact and more…Tune In!!!
In this very much original documentary film, Pollard takes us on a journey that explores the dynamic history of Negro League baseball, revealing the stories of legendary players and the pivotal role they played in shaping the game. Entrepreneurs like Cumberland Posey and Gus Greenlee take center stage, as their intense rivalry fueled the rise of two of the greatest baseball teams of all time. Meanwhile, the documentary shines a spotlight on Effa Manley, the activist owner of the Newark Eagles and the sole woman ever admitted to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Through their stories, “The League” showcases how Black baseball served as an economic and social pillar within Black communities and provided a stage for some of the most exceptional athletes the sport has ever seen.
However, Pollard doesn’t shy away from examining the unintended consequences of integration. As the film unfolds, it delves into the complex aftermath of breaking the color barrier and the impact it had on the Negro Leagues. It’s a profound exploration of the legacy left behind and the challenges faced by Black players during this transformative era.
“The League” stands as a testament to the rich history of Negro League baseball, shedding light on a pivotal time in American sports and culture. With Pollard’s directorial prowess and a stellar production team, this documentary promises to captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and historical significance.
As we eagerly await the release of “The League,” (For transparency, I’ve watched the media screener provided multiple times), I’ll say audiences can prepare themselves for an immersive experience that will transport them back in time and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Black baseball players and the leagues they thrived in.
If ever there was an essential documentary to have in my digital library on the power of the collective mind moving towards and achieving a high standard of excellence and success as a community…”The League” is it for me. ~ JD
African American baseball players from Morris Brown College Atlanta, from THE LEAGUE, a Magnolia Pictures release. © Library of Congress. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Rube Foster (center) while managing the 1916 Chicago American Giants, from THE LEAGUE, a Magnolia Pictures release. © Hake’s Auction. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
The 1942 AA Marines, from THE LEAGUE, a Magnolia Pictures release. © Library of Congress. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
The Newark Eagles in Dugout in 1936, from THE LEAGUE, a Magnolia Pictures release. © Yale University Art Gallery. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Bob Motley in the air, from THE LEAGUE, a Magnolia Pictures release. © Byron Motley. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Sam Pollard, director of THE LEAGUE, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
Theatrical one-sheet for THE LEAGUE, a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.
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About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
