With Black History Month upon us we will learn how far blacks have come in politics, education, health management, sports and entertainment. We will also learn about the heroes and she-roes who paved the way for us to live a better quality of life.

One of the best ways to celebrate Black History Month in the film world is to check out straight to DVD movies produced by, or directed by and starring African Americans. It’s our stories told from our point of view without studio interference.

When Charles Burnett made the film “Killer of Sheep” back in 1997, his goal was simple: He wanted to show everyday life in black Los Angeles through the eyes of the people who lived it, and he wanted to demystify the whole concept of filmmaking within his community.

Consequently, the actors he used were all amateurs; mostly friends and acquaintances.