From #OscarsSoWhite to the proposed orientalization of Scarlett Johansson, representation in film has never been a hotter-button issue. It is remarkable, then, to think that one of the most bankable stars of the 1970s was a black woman working almost exclusively in independent film: Pam Grier. A strong female lead in the male-dominated, not-always-dignified world of blaxploitation cinema, Grier could command the screen like no other, by turns funny, soft, chilling, and extraordinarily badass. Moreover, she was simply a great actress – something Quentin Tarantino took note of when he revived her career with Jackie Brown in 1997. Yet, apart from a few nominations for that film, Grier, with sad predictability, has been neglected by mainstream award shows.

Fortunately, Grier will get her due this month at Harvard, where she will be among the honorees of this year’s W.E.B. DuBois Medal. On Friday, 10/7, Grier will be onhand to introduce her iconic performance in Foxy Brown (1976), followed by a conversation with the great Henry Louis Gates, Jr.; Grier will return on Saturday, 10/8, to introduce her triumphant return in Jackie Brown. It’s an unmissable opportunity for anyone even slightly interested in film– and a great excuse to watch some kickass movies.

Foxy Brown
1974
dir. Jack Hill
92 min.

Screens Friday, 10/7, 7:00PM @HFA
Pam Grier and Henry Louis Gates, Jr. in person

Jackie Brown
1997
dir. Quentin Tarantino
155 min.

Screens Saturday, 10/8 @HFA
Pam Grier in person