This year’s Virginia Film Festival features Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project, a new documentary that chronicles the life, work, and enduring legacy of the titular poet. Going to Mars has already garnered much buzz: At its Sundance premiere earlier this year, the film received the U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Documentary award.
Produced and directed by Michèle Stephenson and Joe Brewster, the film features Giovanni’s poetry, which has enjoyed the popular spotlight for over half a century, overlaid by captivating visuals as well as archival footage. Going to Mars places Giovanni’s work in the context of historical events, social movements—from the Black Arts Movement to Black Lives Matter—and the poet’s personal life. This contextualization illustrates how Giovanni’s appeal is rooted in her ability to weave the political and personal into deeply evocative poems. Ahead of the festival, C-VILLE Weekly had the opportunity to ask Nikki Giovanni a few questions.
C-VILLE: Many folks—including myself—are so looking forward to viewing Going to Mars. Could you talk about what the filmmaking process was like for you? How much were you able to contribute to the artistic vision of the project?
Nikki Giovanni: Mostly I tried to stay out of the way. My contribution was already [there], so I wanted Michèle and Joe to create from my thoughts and creations. I must add I was thrilled at how they used the future with history, which is pretty much how I think.
You are well known for writing poems that reach across generations, chronicling family and societal histories. What impact do you hope this film might have on writers, especially Black poets, who view it now and in the future?
If I could compare this documentary to any other film I would say The Godfather. The history and the love and the acceptance of duty are, I hope, in it.
What excites you most about where American poetry is today?
The voice of Black Americans has continually evolved. We are now at rap but another tone is coming. People all over are writing and reading poetry. There are festivals and there are classes. Wow! A lot of folk used to not even know about poetry who are now a part of its growth.
You’ve talked elsewhere about your quest not to let the world negatively influence you. At a time when so much is happening, and news of these happenings is so readily available to us 24/7, what helps you maintain that inner sanctum?
I avoid what I believe is called social media. I never argue to, at, or with people for whom I have no intellectual respect. I have a great belief in the strength of our ancestors who passed their wisdom along through The Spirituals. I prefer happiness.
Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project
October 28 | The Paramount Theater | With discussion