THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MAGICAL NEGROES (2024)

Aron Mbondo is struggling to survive as an artist in LA. His timid way of dealing with white people undoubtedly plays a part in this. Just try to sell one of your sculptures to a potential white client when he confuses you with the waiting staff. And when they think he’s trying to rob them, prison or worse awaits him. Luckily Roger shows up, a friendly old black guy with a long grey beard, who immediately puts everyone at ease. It looks like magic… ‘cause it is! Roger wants Aron to join the American Society of Magical Negroes, an ancient fellowship that aims to magically neutralize white anger and discomfort. Because, as Roger says, “The happier they feel, the safer we are.” Aron’s first “client” is Jason, a frustrated tech bro who fancies his co-worker Lizzie. When Aron falls in love with Lizzie as well, he puts his own desires above those of his client. And that endangers the magical foundations of the Society… and the future of all black Americans.
“Magical Negro” is what Spike Lee called the typical black character in a supporting role who only serves to help the white protagonist. Kobi Libii stretches this concept to the extreme in his debut feature, a bold supernatural satire that masterfully navigates through the racial minefield of the US of A. THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MAGICAL NEGROES is sharp, relevant and funny and exposes contemporary fractures without being preachy or ramming it down our throats. A true tour de force!