Book Review: The Black Guy Dies First by Dr. Robin R. Means Coleman & Mark H. Harris

Shelly's Book Corner received a review copy from and voluntarily provided an honest review. This does not affect the opinion of the book or the content of the review.

A definitive and surprising exploration of the history of Black horror films, after the rising success of Get Out, Candyman, and Lovecraft Country from creators behind the acclaimed documentary, Horror Noire.

The Black Guy Dies First explores the Black journey in modern horror cinema, from the fodder epitomized by Spider Baby to the Oscar-​winning cinematic heights of Get Out and beyond. This eye-opening book delves into the themes, tropes, and traits that have come to characterize Black roles in horror since 1968, a year in which race made national headlines in iconic moments from the enactment of the 1968 Civil Rights Act and Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in April. This timely book is a must-read for cinema and horror fans alike.

Thank you Saga Press/ Gallery for my review copy.

My 💭:

If you’re a Black horror fan read this book.
If you’re Black read this book.
If you’re a horror fan read this book.

“Blackness isn’t monolithic, after all, and everyone deserves to have their stories told.”

All of this!!

This book really broke down the stereotypical roles Black actors receive in horror movies and that needs to change! Yes, We do have Jordan Peele, but he can’t be the only director to have Black people in non stereotypical roles.

Reading this book was very informative and had me laughing out loud as well. This book also put me on to films I never even heard of and I’m excited to check out Dr. Black & Mr. Hyde from the 70’s. Shoutout to Tubi for having this movie on their streaming service.

After reading this story whenever I see Charles S. Dutton, I will forever think of him as the Sacrificial Negro Extraordinaire. 🤣😩😭 I’m still weak at the way this broke this all the way down.