Provocative and Controversial BIRTH OF A NATION poster released by Fox Searchlight Causes Stir Withi
Even in what are his final moments, defiance, pain and determination are seen in the eyes of Nate Parker’s Nat Turner as an American flag in the shape of a noose hangs around his neck. This is the image of the powerful and provocative new poster released by Fox Searchlight for Nate Parker’s “Birth of a Nation.”
The film, which centers on the 1831 slave rebellion led by Turner, is scheduled for release October 17.
The previous poster also used an American flag with images of members of the revolt.
Social media became abuzz with strong – and sometimes opposing - reactions to the poster. Comments from Variety readers find the poster offensive with one saying, “This is so stupid and is nothing other than race baiting.”
Another reader commented: “That’s going to be the main point of this ad campaign: Pander to the #BlackLivesMatter drones, and get the Oscar nominations/awards to appease the #Blacktivists. While the film may be very good, the ad campaign is going for the lowest common denominator.
According to “The Birth of a Nation” Twitter account, the poster was inspired by Laurie’s Cooper’s “Black Man in America.” Cooper is a Philadelphia-based artist whose work showcases the inner and outer beauty of African-Americans.
“Birth of a Nation” debuted at Sundance in January and sold for $17.5 million to Searchlight. Parker wrote, produced, and directed “Birth of a Nation,” a film sure to be an Oscar contender.
