Now Is the Time "1968" (Ossie Davis) | Classic Black Documentary | Full Film

In this archival presentation, “Now Is the Time” (1968) captures a powerful moment in American cultural history—one shaped by urgency, reflection, and a rising demand for justice beyond the mainstream civil rights narrative of its era. Produced during the late 1960s, this documentary connects historical Black resistance and collective memory with the evolving calls for equality and liberation. It reflects the emotional and political landscape that helped define the period, giving voice to perspectives often excluded from traditional historical accounts. The film also traces the intellectual and cultural roots of the Black Power movement, drawing from African American history, literature, poetry, music, and dramatic interpretation. Rather than presenting a single viewpoint, it forms a mosaic of Black emotional and social life, blending artistic expression with historical reflection. At its core, “Now Is the Time” (1968) addresses the enduring legacy of slavery, systemic inequality, and the growing demand for change—framing these realities through a deeply cultural and artistic lens At Black Vault Classics, our mission is to preserve these works, honor their legacy, and ensure they remain accessible to new generations discovering them today.