Nelson, Stanley(1951–) - Filmmaker, Chronology

Stanley Nelson, a premier filmmaker, has transformed the filmmaking industry by sharing true experiences. Combining interviews, photographic stills, and real footage, Nelson raises the awareness of the African American experience. As director, producer, and writer at Firelight Media/Half-Nelson Films, Nelson motivates, uplifts and moves audiences across the world.

Stanley Nelson was the second of four children born to Stanley E. Nelson and the former A’Lelia “Liel” Ransom. The elder Nelson was a Howard University trained dentist and the outspoken Ransom was a librarian. Their union produced four children: Lynn, Stanley, Jill, and Ralph.

The family grew up mostly in Harlem but later moved to the Upper West Side of Manhattan. In an effort to instill the importance of perfection and excellence, the Nelson children attended mostly private schools and enjoyed summers vacationing at Martha’s Vineyard. The Nelsons enjoyed their stay at their property that overlooked the ocean. This was one of the few places where they seemed to escape the issues of race.

Nelson saw Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song as a teenager, and it gave him a keen awareness of cinema and its power of persuasion. Sweetback was the big screen’s first black ghetto hero and star of Melvin Van Peebles’ groundbreaking 1971 film. The movie opened doors for films about strong black characters. While some blacks did not embrace the genre, it paved the way for many African American writers, directors, and crewmembers. Nelson immediately wanted to create productions that evoked a sense of reaction. He saw filmmaking as a voice to highlight injustices and to calm pain.

During difficult times, such as his parents’ divorce or personal battles, a collection of film cans, videocassettes, and lighting equipment always lurked in the shadow as a sign of strength. All of his early life experiences set the foundation for his filmmaking projects.

Chronology

1951

Born in New York City on June 7

1976

Receives B.F.A. degree in film from Leonard David Film School at City College

1987

Produces first independent film

1990

Begins series of documentaries for PBS

1999

Receives funding from National Endowment for the Arts for Black Press: Soldiers Without Swords

2001

Receives best non-fiction film award by Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame for Look for Me in the Whirlwind

2003

Produces The Murder of Emmett Till , which causes U.S. Justice Department to reopen legal case; earns George Foster Peabody Award, Primetime Emmy Award, Distinguished Documentary Achievement Award, and Sundance Film Festival Special Jury Prize for film