Review of Song of Freedom

The City University of New York or CUNY TV is offering a summer program of 1930s British film. Many have not withstood the hands of time. And among thee films 'Song of Freedom' with the towering talent that was Paul Robeson.Contrary to his own country America, with an exception or two, the British had a very soft spot for Robeson. And he appeared as hero and strong roles in UK cinema. 'Song of Freedom is no exception. The scenario, however, is replete, for audiences today, with racial stereotypes of the Africans or Blacks who are less than noble savages, but base savages, superstitious and living in a world that is lost in the shadows of long gone past. The conceit fits colonial and imperialist thinking of the times. Robeson is Paul Zanga, born in the UK,; his parents have fled their homeland lest they be killed by a cabal headed by a witch doctor and elders, wedded tp traditions that defy the modern (read European) mind,yet obviously bacdwards. What makes this film of interesting is the full acceptance of Robeson and his wife as as equals; there's friendship and one might add love;. He works on the docks, proud he is of his working class roots. And he has a talent for singing. 'Discovered' by an Italian impresario, Fame shines on Paul Zanga as stage actor and serious musician. And yet on the edge of fame, the Metropolitan Opera, the itch of discovery his roots is offered by a British lord. Robeson gives up all to return to his people as their king. Hostilely received,, he expresses a will to bring to his benighted people the blessings of modern civilisation...medicine, education and so on. Rebuffed to the point of being wounded, he prevails by recalling a song that proves he's the her to the throne. The film is not with its buffoons: one a black valet and an Italian, shameful souvenirs of ethnic stereotypes found in US cinema of the times. In a way Robeson wouldn't have taken the role if he didn't, methinks, it had a positive character full of dignity and racial pride. Still, viewing it today, the discomfit if not embarrassment overwhelms. Technically, the film is well shot, but history has made it an example of what not to make.