The Watermelon Woman

“Sometimes you have to create your own history.”

The Watermelon Woman is a striking, idiosyncratic, metatextual mockumentary headed by plucky protagonist Cheryl, an aspiring filmmaker based in Philadelphia. Ambitious to shed light on the histories of fellow Black lesbian creatives who too often face a ‘hostile industry’, it is full of energy, purpose and poise, and is both frank and funny. The Watermelon Woman is notable for being the first feature-length film made by an out Black lesbian director, and strives to make room for others in this space. Its rapid pacing keeps you on your toes, jumping from scene to scene, as Cheryl endeavours to unravel the identity of an actress mysteriously titled ‘The Watermelon Woman’ alive during the 1940s. The Watermelon Woman is a truly unmissable watch and one that will stay alive in your memory.

Martha Gibbs