Documentary Review: ‘Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am’ Delivers Heartfelt Insights, Struggle And Inspiration

Film review by L.C. Cragg

This documentary film draws audiences into the heart and soul of a master story teller and a Nobel prize winning author: Toni Morrison.

A comprehensive look at her very full, inspiring and ground breaking path as a writer of authentic black American experiences, the film reveals her unyielding faith in the power of words through her not only literary, but also her editing and teaching careers.

This film adeptly weaves together the authentic characters and themes of her writing, life experiences and family influences. Even the most dedicated diehard fan will learn new information about Ms. Morrison’s history, journey and evolution as an award winning story teller.

Whether you are an ardent fan of her writing or not, her message of authentic black American voices and stories of the black American landscape are timeless. The film’s interviewees include: Angela Davis, Oprah Winfrey, Fran Lebowitz, Sonia Sanchez and Robert Gottlieb. All of whom deliver insights and thoughts about her journey and impact. These testimonies support the film’s messages without detracting from Ms. Morrison’s pithy and humorous self-commentary, revealing a true window to her limitless loving soul. A soul that was determined to share her fiercely visionary creativity.

The film’s pacing, just like Ms. Morrison’s writing leaves space for moments of processing the harsh realities of racial hatred, segregation, rape, lynching’s and violence within and against the black community.

The Pieces I Am despite though dealing with themes of personal black American tragedies conveys a true sense of hope for “the jumble that is black America.”