three stars for intentions, but not really for execution. the content from filmmakers is mostly compelling, although a little less messianic fervor around jordan peele might be nice. the problem is the weak scholarship of the film's originator, who has carved herself an important square hole and has never seen a round peg that she won't try to jam in there. she plays fast and loose with the details of her chosen films, views the academic's job as serving as judge and (if needed) executioner of these works, and is wildly dismissive of vast swaths of cinema in which complicating works might appear. there are other academics and writers whose contributions are solid and enlightening. the actors highlighted are all fun, and they give better on-the-ground context than any of the other interviewees. the films are well chosen, but felt a bit sparse. a short run series might've served the topic better.