Australian
Screen

an NFSA website




Black Soldier Blues (2004)

Synopsis

Black Soldier Blues looks back on the period during the Second World War when American servicemen were stationed in Queensland. African American veterans talk with candour about the friendliness of Australians compared with their treatment by white American servicemen which was callous and racist. The interviews are intercut with historical footage and comments by Queenslanders.

Curator’s notes

Black Soldier Blues is an interesting examination of prejudice in action. Queenslanders were shocked to witness execution without a court martial, and physical demonstrations of prejudice. The film is enriched by the grace and charm of the African American ex-servicemen interviewed. Jack Thompson narrates the film.