Richmond’s history is layered with stories of resilience, reinvention, and, in some cases, outright injustice. The Clear Redline, a new documentary by filmmaker Myles Black, peels back those layers to expose the lasting impact of redlining in Richmond and across the United States. For Black, this isn’t just a historical exploration—it’s personal. “When I was a kid, I remember driving through the redlined areas and noticing the stark difference between one block and the next,” he recalls.
A Personal Journey Turned Documentary
Black grew up in Richmond before his neighborhood was rezoned into North Chesterfield during his elementary school years. His mother worked at MCV, and their daily drives down Hull Street Road became an early education in economic disparity. “How can so much money exist just a block away from intense poverty—and why?” That question followed him into adulthood, eventually finding its way into a 15-page research paper on redlining during his sophomore year at VCU. “It stuck with me,” he says.
That lingering curiosity transformed into The Clear Redline, a documentary series designed to make the issue of redlining both accessible and impactful. “A lot of people see these same stark differences within our country, but not a lot of people know the history or understand the scope of its impact on individuals and families,” Black explains. His goal? To bring this hidden history to light “in an impactful, thoughtful, and not boring way.”
Building the Story with Expert Voices
To ensure the documentary reflected the reality of those affected, Black drew on both his research and insights from subject-matter experts. He interviewed Bill Martin from the Valentine Museum, Gary Flowers from Jackson Ward, Robert Nelson and the Digital Scholarship Lab at the University of Richmond, and Regina Chaney with HOME of VA. But one of the most personal moments came when Black reached out to Richmond-based content creator RonBandup. “I saw him on multiple interview-style YouTube channels and asked if we could do a walk and talk through Gilpin Court,” Black says. “He was extremely cool and nice about it, and we set up a meeting at the Tiger Market in Gilpin.”
These interviews weave together the historical and contemporary, showing how policies like redlining continue to affect Richmond’s neighborhoods today.
The Challenge of Telling This Story
Creating The Clear Redline wasn’t easy. Black produced, directed, filmed, and edited the entire project himself—juggling interviews, research, and post-production while completing his capstone course at VCU. “This was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do by myself,” he admits. “Time management was tough, especially working around other people’s schedules and needing several weeks to edit, lol!”
Despite these hurdles, Black’s dedication shines through. “I learned a literal ton,” he says. “The overall thing I learned was just how deep this issue of redlining is within our country. It seems embedded in its DNA, but I think we have the power to change it and break the generational cycle.”
For Black, identifying the problem is the first step. “We need to clearly identify the issue so we know what we’re dealing with, how we got here, and the present effects of past betrayals. Then we’ll be able to think about how to keep growing as a people.”
Why You Should Watch
Richmond is often celebrated for its vibrant arts and evolving culture, but beneath its surface lies a history of systemic injustice that still dictates who gets to thrive. The Clear Redline doesn’t just recount history—it challenges viewers to confront the legacy of redlining and its present-day effects.
The first episode is available now, with Episode 2, The Hood is on Fire: Zipcode Climate, currently in production. “I hope this brings the issue to light in a way that resonates,” Black says.
If you care about history, justice, or simply want to see a Richmond filmmaker shine a light on an often-overlooked issue, The Clear Redline is a must-watch.
Watch The Clear Redline and be part of the conversation.
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