Legendary Hollywood director Reginald Hudlin brings his cinematic eye to Apple TV+ to helm the first part of the two-part documentary Number One on the Call Sheet. Jamie Foxx produces through his Foxxhole Productions with Datari Turner, Kevin Hart produces through HartBeat, and Dan Cogan produces through Story Syndicate. Hudlin's portion of the film carries the subtitle: Black Leading Men in Hollywood.
The first time I can remember seeing someone who looked like me on the big screen was in 1984 when my parents took me to see Beverly Hills Cop. I was three years old, and while jokes went over my head, the image of seeing Mr. Murphy on such a large platform stuck with me. Naturally, I was elated to be Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood.
This film goes beyond typical documentaries, functioning simultaneously as a love letter to its subjects, a history lesson about Black male actors in Hollywood, and a celebration of their cultural impact. Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood investigates the struggles and successes of Black male actors in Hollywood while showcasing their remarkable skills, which have defined cinematic history.
The film's hall-of-fame cast, including Denzel Washington, Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Idris Elba, and Morgan Freeman, showcases collective resilience, impact, and individual greatness. These actors have captivated global audiences while redefining leading man standards by breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.
Hudlin, who always masterfully combines entertainment and insight as demonstrated in his previous films such as Marshall and House Party, adds a dynamic touch to this documentary. Personal stories combined with industry evaluations and archival clips create a detailed depiction of Hollywood's changing dynamics. The film features insights from industry powerhouses Robi Reed and Nina Shaw to explore the structural obstacles Black actors have experienced and continue to confront.
I was profoundly impacted when Denzel Washington discussed the actors who preceded Paul Robeson. Additionally, Eddie Murphy recounted his experiences navigating the path to fame at a young age. Murphy articulates the rationale behind his decision to decline the role of Alex Haley in the early eighties' proposed adaptation of The Autobiography of Malcolm X.
The documentary confronts brutal truths head-on. The journey to becoming the lead role has involved challenges, from limited role options to ongoing battles for fair compensation and acknowledgment. But the film also celebrates the wins, including box office domination, Oscar victories, and the emergence of multi-talented stars who define their industry paths. There is also an outstanding tribute dedicated to Chadwick Boseman. When you listen to his co-stars pay tribute to him, you'll undoubtedly have tears in your eyes.
Anyone who loves film or appreciates Black excellence should watch Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood. It serves as both a valuable learning experience and a source of inspiration, highlighting the importance of representation and the reasons these individuals deserve ongoing recognition.
Final Grade: A
Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Men in Hollywood will premiere globally on Friday, March 28, on Apple TV+.
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