Three families, encompassing two races, and one last name. Macky Alston explores his family name and uncovers the truth about his family’s slave-owning past, unveiling secrets that reverberate today. More than a genealogical detective story, FAMILY NAME moves beyond race to confront issues of class, of sexuality, and of secrecy. Is something really a secret if everybody knows it, but nobody speaks about it?
An Opelika Pictures Production
Directed by Macky Alston
Produced by Nick Gottlieb and Selina Lewis-Davidson
Co-Edited with Sandra Christie
Sundance Film Festival Freedom of Expression Award Winner 1997
Independent Feature Project Open Palm Award Winner 1997
Theatrical Run 1997
1999 Emmy Nomination
Broadcast on the PBS series P.O.V. in 1998