How to Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (and Enjoy It)

*7.2

Status

Released

Production

Roseland Films

Aired

2005-04-07

How to Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (and Enjoy It)

Melvin Van Peebles was one of the first black directors to challenge the white establishment in his films, which include "Watermelon Man" and "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song." In this documentary, the life of Van Peebles is discussed, including his work not only in film, but also as a novelist, actor, musician, stock trader and even Air Force pilot. Interview subjects include Gil Scott-Heron, Spike Lee and Melvin's son and fellow filmmaker, Mario Van Peebles.