“Assembly” is a compelling documentary of black queer joy full of artistic experiences

Growing up in rural Louisiana, Rashad Newsome knew what it felt like to be an outsider. As a black, queer man, he experienced the constraints of small-town American life in a deeply suffocating way. Throughout much of his childhood and adolescence, he dreamed of escaping the countryside for a more diverse and vibrant city.

Eventually, that dream became a reality, and later in life he was able to create Assembly, an event celebrating the existence and creativity of LGBTQ+ people of color that would empower people who feel underrepresented in society. Held in a historic New York City armory, the event unfolded over several days of powerful live performances, immersive art exhibits, and even an AI named Being designed to educate attendees about the history of black oppression and the systemic issues people of color continue to face.

This documentary is a powerful behind-the-scenes look at the creation of an event designed to inspire lives. Watching Rashad Newsome work tirelessly to bring together black LGBTQ+ artists and give them a platform to share meaningful art reminds viewers that what we sometimes dismiss as simple entertainment can actually be deeply transformative. This is evident in one live dance performance which expressed the pain and devastation that the AIDS epidemic inflicted on black queer men.

By confronting the painful history the community endured, the performance educates attendees and encourages them to move through the world with greater compassion and understanding.

The film is compelling in the way it captures the genuine impact the event has on its attendees and performers. Hearing people of color describe how society is often structured around heteronormative and white-centered standards highlights how isolating everyday life can sometimes feel. The documentary effectively shows how art and spaces centered around representation can create a powerful ripple effect of positivity and belonging.

In one moment, two young women discuss how dolls like Barbie promoted such a narrow beauty standard that they often felt like outsiders growing up. An older black woman also reflects on how overwhelmingly white media and advertising were in earlier decades, which made it even easier to feel invisible. Through these personal stories, the documentary demonstrates why events that celebrate diversity and inclusion are so important within all communities.

Assembly is a well-crafted documentary with the ability to resonate with audiences seeking several different messages. If you are interested in the heart and effort that go into creating an artistic experience, the film offers an insightful look at how everything comes together. It seamlessly shows all the preparation and rehearsals needed to create powerful entertainment.

The documentary also sheds light on the oppression black and black LGBTQ+ individuals face, and how creating and experiencing art can become a powerful form of liberation. Assembly is ultimately a celebration of that freedom and expression.

Safe spaces where people can feel seen and empowered, like the one Rashad has created through Assembly, are essential to building a more harmonious and inclusive world.

5/5 stars

assemblythefilm.com/