Two Minutes Du Jour

Earlier this year, my friend and I stumbled upon Origin, Ava DuVernay’s latest film, without preconceptions, lured by the premise of a behind-the-scenes narrative of a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. What unfolded was an experience far beyond our expectations, compelling us to wish we had seen the movie before dinner – it’s a story worth discussing.

At its core, Origin explores the complex layers of social stratification through the lens of caste systems, not just in the traditional sense but as a global phenomenon that affects every aspect of human interaction. Adapted from Isabel Wilkerson’s groundbreaking work, the film navigates the intricate narratives of individuals entrenched within these invisible hierarchies, revealing how these deeply embedded structures influence identity, opportunity, and perception. Ava DuVernay masterfully translates these themes onto the screen, offering a compelling, thought-provoking experience that challenges viewers to reflect on the unseen forces shaping their lives and the world around them.

Ava DuVernay’s Origin is not just a film; it’s a revelation. Based on Isabel Wilkerson’s seminal book Caste, which delves into the stark inequalities etched into the very fabric of society, the movie was once considered impossible to adapt. Yet, DuVernay, undeterred by the challenge or the industry’s economic downturn, carved a path to bring this story to the screen, bypassing traditional funding avenues for a model that is as innovative as it is revolutionary.

In a striking blend of personal narratives, including Wilkerson’s own, Origin presents a vivid mosaic of life within a hierarchy of human division, shedding light on societal structures that dictate our lives. The film unveiled at a Q&A session at Art Basel Miami, left many in tears, a testament to its profound impact and the emotional resonance it carries.

As I learned from Katie Couric’s podcast interview with Ava DuVernay, Origin stands apart not just because of the story it tells but also because of how it came to be. Against one of the film industry’s most significant slumps, DuVernay’s determination to adapt Caste and secure funding outside the conventional studio or streamer models is nothing short of revolutionary. It’s a powerful demonstration of how innovative thinking can tackle even the most intractable issues.

Origin is more than a film; it’s a lesson in perseverance, innovation, and the power of storytelling to confront and illuminate the darkest corners of our society. As we left the theater, my friend and I realized we had witnessed something extraordinary. This film transcends the boundaries of cinema to spark conversation, challenge perceptions, and inspire change.

Two Links Du Jour:
1. Podcast: Ava Duvernay’s New Film Origin Reaches Beyond the Theater Next Question with Katie Couric
2. NPR: With ‘Origin,’ Ava DuVernay illuminates America’s racial caste system