Photo credit: FollowingHarryFilm
Harry Belafonte’s legacy of activism and social justice is coming to audiences nationwide with the release of Following Harry.
The award-winning documentary will arrive across major video-on-demand platforms in the United States on October 13. Viewers will be able to watch the film on Amazon, Apple TV, Fandango and other major VOD services.
The documentary will also be available across Canada on Amazon and Apple TV on the same day.
Following Harry explores Belafonte’s final years
Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Susanne Rostock, Following Harry offers an intimate look at the final 12 years of Belafonte’s life.
The film follows the legendary entertainer and civil rights leader as he reflects on his work, activism and hopes for the next generation.
Belafonte spent decades using his platform to support social justice causes. His activism connected entertainment, politics and grassroots movements.
Following Harry captures that commitment through both public moments and private conversations.
The documentary follows Belafonte from the aftermath of Trayvon Martin’s death to protests in Ferguson. It also explores the Women’s March and conversations that took place inside his home.
A powerful group joins Harry Belafonte
The film features several prominent artists, activists and entertainers who were connected to Belafonte and his legacy.
Among them are Angela Davis, Jamie Foxx, Chuck D, Talib Kweli, Rosario Dawson, Jesse Williams and Aloe Blacc.
The documentary also features Aja Monet, Carmen Perez, Gina Belafonte, Kerry Kennedy, Phillip Agnew and other voices.
Their stories help show how Belafonte influenced a new generation of entertainers and activists.
Rostock previously directed Sing Your Song, the acclaimed documentary about Belafonte’s life and activism. She also directed Following Harry as the filmmaker continued exploring his lasting influence.
The film earned festival recognition
Following Harry has already made an impact on the festival circuit.
The documentary was an official selection at the Tribeca Film Festival, Santa Barbara International Film Festival and Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival.
It also received several honors.
The film won the Sidewalk Film Festival Jury Award, the BronzeLens Cinema & Social Justice Award and the Cleveland International Film Festival FilmSlam Award.
Those recognitions add to the anticipation surrounding its nationwide VOD release.
Harry Belafonte’s message lives on
At the heart of Following Harry is Belafonte’s belief that every generation must take responsibility for its own future.
The documentary presents his experiences as a guide for younger activists and artists. It also challenges viewers to consider how they can continue the work of creating social change.
The film was produced by Frankie Nasso, Edward Zeng and Rostock. Executive producers include Mimi Polk Gitlin, David Dinerstein, Pamela Belafonte and Jeff Kranzdorf.
Blue Harbor Entertainment is distributing the documentary.
With its October 13 release, Following Harry gives a new audience the opportunity to revisit Belafonte’s life, activism and enduring influence.
Source: Blue Harbor Entertainment / Following Harry press materials
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