IN CINEMA
Made You Look: H2O (Hip-Hop Odyssey)
LIFE OR DEATH: THE "SILKY SLIM” STORY
Tickets: $15 General Admission / $7 Reduced Price
Thursday, September 19th at 7PM
Presented in partnership with the Hip-Hop Education Center
Gerald Barclay & Arthur “Silky Slim” Reed, 2024
LIFE OR DEATH tells the incredible journey of Silky Slim, a former gang leader whose life takes a profound turn after surviving a tragic accident that claims the lives of his friends. Fueled by miraculous signs, Silky embarks on a mission to break the cycle of violence and crime that once defined him.
Post-screening discussion with filmmakers, Gerald Barclay and Silky Slim!
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ARTHUR REED, professionally known as Silky Slim, is an award-winning filmmaker, director, producer, writer, cinematographer, and author. Silky Slim’s life is an extraordinary journey marked by resilience, transformation, and an unyielding commitment to justice.
Silky Slim’s story extends beyond the streets of South Baton Rouge to the world stage. He has made notable appearances in prominent documentaries, including the Ben Crump production “Civil,” as well as “Diamonds in the Dirt”, and “To Live and Die in Amerikkka.” Additionally, his presence is felt in the film “Death Toll” alongside DMX and Lou Diamond Phillips.
Through these cinematic endeavors, Silky Slim’s narrative becomes a powerful testament to overcoming adversity and the tireless pursuit of justice. His life not only serves as an inspiration for those facing similar struggles but also stands as a symbol of redemption and the capacity for positive change. Arthur “Silky Slim” Reed’s life is a compelling account of a man who has risen above his circumstances, leaving an indelible mark on both his local community and the broader conversation surrounding justice and resilience.
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GERALD K. BARCLAY, professionally known as Gee-Bee, is a Liberian-born, award-winning director, producer, writer, cinematographer, and author. Gee-Bee began his filmmaking career in 1990 by working on Spike Lee's JUNGLE FEVER and KING OF NEW YORK. Gee-Bee has directed hundreds of music videos for artists such as Wu-Tang Clan, Master P., Snoop Dogg, Bounty Killa, Mystikal, Big Pun, Ill & Al Skratch, and The Gap Band.
Besides music videos, Gee-Bee produced and directed LIBERIA: THE LOVE OF LIBERTY BROUGHT US HERE; WU: THE STORY OF THE WU-TANG CLAN; BLOODY STREETZ; THE BULLY; and the critically acclaimed FATIMA’S REVENGE. Gee-Bee's latest endeavors include the concert film, A WU-TANG EXPERIENCE: LIVE AT RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATER; and LIFE OR DEATH: THE "SILKY SLIM” STORY along with civil rights attorney, Benjamin Crump.
Gerald's latest projects are NO NOT ME, a feature film on female circumcision in Liberia, and KILLA HILL, a 10-part docuseries about devastating effects of the crack epidemic on Park Hill, the notorious projects that gave birth to the Wu-Tang Clan.
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LIFE OR DEATH: THE "SILKY SLIM” STORY screens as part of Made You Look: H2O (Hip-Hop Odyssey), a collaborative screening series reflecting Hip-Hop Education Center's ongoing commitment to celebrating and preserving Hip-Hop culture through innovative programming and partnerships. With its roots in overcoming barriers and fostering equity, this new film series continues to honor the vibrant legacy of Hip-Hop and its profound impact on society.
