Daughters of the Dust
"Daughters of the Dust" is a 1991 film directed by Julie Dash. It is notable for being the first feature film directed by an African American woman to receive a wide theatrical release in the United States. The story is set in the early 1900s and follows the Gullah community on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, exploring their rich cultural heritage and the impact of migration.
The film centers on a family preparing for a significant transition as some members plan to move to the mainland. It highlights themes of identity, tradition, and the struggle to preserve cultural roots amidst change. The visual storytelling and use of symbolism have made it a landmark in American cinema.