Documentary Spotlight: ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’ on AppleTV+
Overview of the Documentary
AppleTV+ has premiered a compelling two-part documentary titled Number One on the Call Sheet, featuring an impressive lineup of Black actors, including Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. This documentary aims to explore the milestones and hurdles faced by Black leading men and women in Hollywood.
Directorial Leadership
The project is directed by Reginald Hudlin, who helms the first installment, Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood. Shola Lynch takes the reins for the second part, Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Women in Hollywood. These documentaries feature a prominent roster of stars sharing insights about their personal experiences in the industry.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Throughout the documentary, actors like Will Smith, Whoopi Goldberg, and Daniel Kaluuya provide candid reflections on their careers. The project encapsulates a historical perspective on the growth of Black representation in film while celebrating individual accomplishments. Producer Datari Turner emphasizes that their intention was always to create two separate films to honor the distinct narratives of Black male and female actors.
The Genesis of the Project
At a press conference, Turner detailed the project’s inception, which stemmed from his curiosity about the careers of Black actors who experienced early success but faced challenges in maintaining their “leading” status. He noted, “I was always very curious about what happened to this person’s career,” prompting a deeper exploration into how some actors, like Jamie Foxx and Denzel Washington, have sustained their prominent positions in Hollywood.
Storytelling Approach
The documentaries incorporate interviews alongside archival footage, presenting a rich narrative that also highlights trailblazing figures such as Sidney Poitier and Hattie McDaniel. Their contributions to both civil rights and the arts underscore the strong foundation laid for future Black actors.
Fostering a Supportive Environment
Director Shola Lynch emphasized the importance of creating a supportive atmosphere during filming. She sought to showcase the actors in “a beautiful light” and to honor their journeys, encouraging them to speak openly about both the positive and negative facets of their experiences.
A Blueprint for Future Generations
One of the central aims of the filmmakers is to provide guidance for emerging Black actors. Turner pointed out that many successful Black artists lack mentorship, being first-generation trailblazers in the industry. “We want this to be a blueprint for generations to come,” he articulated, underscoring the need for guidance on navigating Hollywood’s complexities.
The Importance of Story Ownership
In a collaborative effort, Turner, Lynch, and executive producer Byron Phillips stressed the significance of Black creatives taking ownership of their narratives. Phillips remarked that passing down knowledge and experience among actors is vital for ensuring accurate documentation of their journeys and achievements.
Diverse Paths to Success
While acknowledging progress in opportunities for Black women in the industry, Lynch asserted that there is still much work to be done. She highlighted the diverse definitions of success and the need for individualized paths for each artist. “There is no one standard for success,” she noted, posing the question, “What am I doing to be number one on my call sheet?”
Watch ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’
To explore these compelling stories further, watch Number One on the Call Sheet, available for streaming on AppleTV+.