The Black Cop: a villain, a victim and a hero - Bafta 2022 Best Short Film winner
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 ม.ค. 2022
- The Black Cop is the winner of the British Short Film category at the 75th British Academy Film Awards. This intimate portrait of Gamal 'G' Turawa, an ex-Metropolitan police officer, explores his memories of racially profiling and harassing black people and homophobia in his early career.
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Now an openly gay man, Turawa’s story is a multi-layered one and sits in the centre of three pivotal moments in recent British history, from the black communities’ resistance of oppressive policing, to the push for LGBTQIA equality and the aftermath of the west African 'farming' phenomenon, where white families took care of black children outside the remit of local authorities.
Warning: this video references suicide.
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#TheBlackCop #Documentary #Bafta #Police #Racism #UK
Guardian documentary The Black Cop wins Bafta for best short film ► www.theguardian.com/film/2022/mar/13/guardian-film-the-black-cop-wins-bafta-for-best-documentary-short
I'm white and I live in Pennsylvania, US. I'm Twenty One. Every other line this man says brings me to tears. I wish I could of done something to help all of this evil sooner. It breaks my heart comment section. It breaks my heart. :'(
This is an example of the teaching power of lived experience and telling your story. Touching, moving, deep, powerful, thought provoking. A narration that shows you visibly shaken by the 'layer of defence' you had to use to survive and then coming to the realisation of 'who defines you'. Inspirational. You deserve a BAFTA!!! Thank you for sharing your story.
Thank you 🙏🏾
Hundy P.
A lot of people ask how Priti Patel can be so racist when she is Indian? How can she not have empathy for people of colour, and I've always explained it exactly how this man explains his career in the police force, she will go above and beyond to prove to the Tories ( a predominantly white party ) that she isn't soft, she won't be giving any minorities any favours at all by never ever standing up for minorities, infact she defends statues more than anything else.
she’s self serving, like many of the tories
We’ll said
Also, her own history in Uganda may inform her view of African and African Caribbeans.
Absolutely and your assessment sums it up nicely. If one is aware who they are from a very young age, there's usually no Unambiguorty when it comes to being transparent, standing up for what's right, and not selling one's soul to be "tolerated", if that....
@@marcuspeter1043 you’re saying she wasn’t aware of who she was from a very young age?
Thank you for sharing. If only more people could have this level of self reflection. Simply brilliant
so true. So many narcissists in our world who need to self reflect but they never will.
This link was posted in a WhatsApp group. I thought I would dip in and watch for a few minutes. I was gripped by his story and moved by his experiences. I'm going to send the link to all the young people I know.
Thank you 🙏🏾
Very interesting. As a black person, I also recall the realisation of the implications of being black. I wasn't adopted or naive about race, but I went to a nearly all white schools growing up and never suffered from racism. In my head, I was the same as everyone else and your skin colour was of no more significance than your height, hair colour etc. It was not until Stephen Lawrence was murdered and that's when I became more conscious of it.
Thank you 🙏🏾
🙏🏾
Would you ever let a bunch of white ppl paint ur face white just to fit in??
@@1p4p_akqb99 No, lol. Why do you ask?
@@johnblaze8774 Nice to know you have some integrity unlike that disgrace
Fascinating storytelling and very well shot and edited. This personal story reminds me of the life of actor David Harewood. He had a similar formative experience of racist abuse as a young child, similarly went through his life attempting to be unaware of his race to avoid racism. When he began working as a young actor, the racist and negative reviews he got about his work from the press sent him into mental breakdown, he ended up sectioned with multiple officers kneeling on his back. Racism is many things, but it's also psychological torment.
Thank you 🙏🏾
This is the story of all black people born in the "Western Hemisphere" wanting to be white at some stage in your youth, the lucky ones of us evolve out of this early, before becoming like this, but for the average majority we learn later on, after many years of making a fool of yourself trying to "fit in". For those who don't come to this evolution, they become lost, confused, isolated and abused from bothe sides. This man tried hard and nearly lost himself. I could only imagine the close ones who condemned him.
Well said👊🏾
‘All black people…. wanting to be white.’
Speak for yourself.
I'm in tears... thank you for your courage Gamal, thank you for sharing your story. Everyone should see this.
In acting lol
A honest and uplifting story, also I don't think any other uk paper would have produced this film, well done the guardian
Just won a BAFTA….
It's a tragic but wonderful story of a black man's journey to love himself accept himself enough to despite all the racism and distortions of being oneself! Thanks for sharing!
Ex Met cop here (HB/HT/SO12): I'd have been happy to walk the beat with you.
Thank you 🙏🏾
Yeah, I bet it would have been a real joy harassing young black men alongside a black police officer, right?
Not sure I understand?
@@philbowles3240 which part do you not understand? That’s what the Met did back then and that’s what they continue to do now. The subject of this very film, Gamal Turawa admitted to harassing and profiling young black men himself.
@@asiatic999 thank u, my point exactly👍. No apology made to those black boys, whose lives may have also been tainted. The story is shocking & weldone to him training others but accountability is needed. I didn't hear that. He was not the only victim.
Great true story. He finally understood what was happening to him.
Thank you 🙏🏾
Hey G, it was a privilege to work with you in the past, and it's a privilege to still have you as a friend. What an incredibly brave, honest and deeply impactful film Cherish has produced with you not to mention the countless lives you have touched, and will continue to touch. Not all of us evolve as human beings to become as self-aware and self-reflective as you. From the first line ["I joined because I wanted to be white"] through to "it's taken me 40 years....", this film holds our attention throughout. I honestly can't imagine any other film competing with this story in the BAFTA category it's been shortlisted for.
Brother man please come to America and tour give your experience with police forces here. I'm hey need to hear your story .
I can face another day knowing there is another Black man somewhere doing something Constructive and lifting up the image of our People .
Thank you
I would love to…
@@gamalturawa6304 Please do, G. Please do.
From a younger generation, but this relates too hard to my school years. You deserve to heal, uncle
This is *BRUTAL* either way you look at it!
I really wish every white person claiming that there is nor real racism ( or colourism for that matter) would watch this and actually listen. As a white person you don’t even need to fully understand, because at the end of the day you can’t since you are not ever experiencing it every single day of your life. You just need to realise that you don’t completely understand it and acknowledge and consider exactly that, whenever you enter that discussion. Listen better and think more.
Thank you 🙏🏾
@@gamalturawa6304 You are very welcome. Thank you for doing this.
Oh we know there’s racism. I literally just read some… I see this same nonsense rhetoric everyday.
I have seen and learnt something I had no clue about. A strong and truthful documentary which should be shown in schools, colleges and any place that needs this film to make a change in the mindsets of the ignorant.
I feel for Gamal, as someone who was with foster parents until 2/3 (have no recollection of it), I am glad my parents relocated to Nigeria when I was 3 where I had my formative years. I did not know I was "black" until I returned to the UK in my late 20s.
Thank you 🙏🏾
WOW that's absolutely astounding, and just goes to prove, the impacts of positive messages during of one's formative year's is critical in socialisation - "being seen" / "heard" / "included".
The first TH-cam video I watched even the credits. Just brilliant. Bravo.
All skinfolk ain’t kinfolk
I can imagine narrating this was both painful and a release. Hats off to you, mate.
He was out hunting the streets of London looking for victims so he could make progress in his career, what about the people stitched up?
He was a bounty to begin with.
He is living in regrets for what he did….we need to have a forgiving heart
@@lillyl4262 we have to try, we live and learn and get wiser in life. We just humans trying to comprehend life, and it is a journey. I understand your point.
@@lillyl4262 No, he isn't bereft of regrets; in fact, all of this theatrics is paying off for him.
@@lillyl4262 are you even black to forgive him?
The fact this man experienced all of this and decided to use his story to change things rather than just sit back and complain while all of it happened is amazing.
My parents are white. We grew up here in LA and most of my parents friends were black. My dad taught my bothers & I to *never trust* the police. I taught my kids the same & it’s more important that my kids know this bc they are half white. I’m certain we will teach our grandchildren the same bc nothing will ever change no matter how much we fight, vote, plead…
It might be a little more complicated than “F^
No wonder cops shoot people when kids are taught this way. No need to wonder why they’re so combative to the point of getting killed. This is why. Well done.
@@steveo4991 Stop the nonsense. Once you become targeted by cops, and experience something traumatic, you’ll change your tune. But, since you most likely haven’t, and the cops are not meant for people like y’all, you couldn’t care less. Put the shoe on the other foot, but before someone forces you to.
Sensational storytelling, twist after twist and beautifully edited, BRAVO
I hope a lot of people watch this and reflect on their own past and fix society because some of this is still a big problem.
The fact he is able to shows his growth.
Banter is just another way of hiding bullying in my opinion
I couldn't stop crying 😢 when Therapist asked Gamal "Who defines You?"
As a Black, Disabled, female, Scientific Researcher, lab Manager, PhD, Mother of Two & trade union Rep - working in the NHS for 40years!! - It was the last "Who do You think you are?" that drove me to suicidal plans.
I thought that I had done everything to "fit in" but yet I was still an "upitty N who didn't know her place"
Spent the last 4 years in bed with depression 😪 trying to Heal.
Absolutely brilliant story-telling!! The really tight shots during G's interview conveyed so much emotion in his eyes, I felt every word of what he was saying. Massive congratulations to Cherish and the production team behind it for putting this together!🎬
Thank you 🙏🏾
Absolutely and it really captivated my attention from start to finish. I can definitely see a Netflix series or feature film in the makinb, to expand more of his holistic journey.
I remember I was 7 when I became aware I was black.
I had a fight in school where I was hit first in a debate about Chelsea vs Manchester United. I turned around and hit the boy back, my teacher grabbed me and restrained me but let the boy give me 5 extra punches before letting me go to push him away.
In the office our parents sat down and although the other boy started it and gave me a few extra punches my teacher put the blame all on me. On the way home explained to my mother that I never started the fight and what the boy had done, I thought I was going to get the belt for getting in trouble at school but that’s the day my mother sat me down and gave me “the black talk”.
I started looking at the world differently and my eyes opened, I started to notice I was treated differently by society than my white peers.
I am so sorry you had to endure this. Thank you for sharing your story and thank you for your service.
There are police ... and there are police. I recall a conversation with a black acquaintance who moved from Brixton to a rural part of Yorkshire about 15 years ago saying he was "profoundly shocked" at how approachable and friendly the local police were in his village - not a hint of racism.
That is interesting.
Mind you I think a fair few white folk find the police unapproachable in London
Don't mention the Yorkshire Cricket team🤦🏾♂️
@@antifugazi As long as we also don’t mention the antisemite racist making the accusations against the cricket team…
So powerful, inspiring and so true! I am a recent ex-met officer who is black. 10+ years in the job and still experienced racism and aggressions. But as always if we cant show proof it didnt happen or we're too sensitive
Absolutely amazing.... So emotional! Thank you so much for sharing...
A strong man
Thank you 🙏🏾
I'm well balanced having a chip on both shoulders.
This is one of the most impactful things I've ever watched
Incredibly powerful - it is going to take me sometime to process what I just watched and heard. I have spoken to G many times and was away of some of his story. The production of this documentary has amplified the story in a way that truly brought it to life for me. Thanks G for being there as my friend and sounding board - Joanne x
I'm genuinely blown away. Deep respect for keeping my eyes open.
I’ve always loved and accepted people for who they are but this just gave me a whole new and fresh perspective I don’t know you but thank you G for helping me understand and I’m proud of my boy Marlon and I really hope that you guys win the award❤️❤️
BAFTA WINNING DOCUMENTARY!!! 🥳
Thank you for sharing your story. What an horrendous account of your life and career. Your honesty is so refreshing. Thank you!
This documentary is so moving, thought-provoking and powerful! Thank you for your honestly G.
Thank you 🙏🏾
What an absolute legend and sweetheart. Just got me out of bed!
Awesome story. Glad you're still able to educate and enlighten us.
Such a powerful film, heartfelt thanks to G for the life-affirming telling of his story, and a huge shout out to the crew for the way they've crafted this piece. A special thanks to DP, as the DP on this project!
Why not express your thanks by calling him by his name? Is that way too heartfelt for you B?
That look to the camera at the end. My goodness. Wow.
Fantastic film showing how wonderful humans can be despite how awful we treat each other as a species.
I met G when he ran a week long leadership course. It was by far the most useful and rewarding course out of anything I attended in my 13 years in the met.
It is really powerful and thought provoking to see this documentary. I was aware that you have been through a lot over the years in and out of the Met, but hearing it all in the short documentary really hits hard.
It is great that you have used this all as a way to help others throughout your life.
I look forward to seeing more of these videos with you in
U a fed. Acab
I think this is very very powerful because of his honesty
Thank you 🙏🏾
Thank you for this interesting and thought-provoking documentary.
What a legend. One of the greatest films I've ever watched.
"legend"? I suspect that was a typo?
@@primalconvoy Woops!
Thank you 🙏🏾
What a wonderful example of what police should be, much love to that gentleman.
Thank you 🙏🏾
@The PsyenTwist Is that all you got from the clip? I think you're being wilfully ignorant. Even disingenuous.
This is such a powerful story. Huge respect for Gamal for his vulnerability in sharing his life experiences here. As more stories like this are shared, I hope we can all learn and work to prevent racism and homophobia.
This video has moved me to tears and what a joyful and uplifting ending. Thank you for sharing the story. The MacPherson report was ground breaking and positively impacted many institutions. For me the right for anyone to decide if something is a hate crime is one of the most powerful recommendations. You don’t need a special hat or wig to decide if something is a hate crime. This empowering and challenging notion has led to less harm, more justice and a greater understanding. This story reflects our journey in this country.
Thank you 🙏🏾
It's irrational and dangerous. What if someone insists, that some trivial, innocent thing done or said is a hate crime? Emotions alone can't be basis for anything. Over the centuries we have revoked the undeserved special status of religious feelings, it's a pity that their place was taken by another set of (mere) feelings. It's a step backwards.
@@ArghastOfTheAlliance that is a Non Crime Hate Incident. Stays on a checkable record for 6 years. Does not have to be intended only possibly perceived as such.. Some sort of review needed?
@@ArghastOfTheAlliance Shouldn’t we be as concerned about the innocent victims?
He is really a wonderful person and a great friend. Truly an example dont judge a book by its cover, because when you get to know him, you will love who he is
Nothing wrong with his "cover..."
Great biopic/documentary.
Thanks Gamal.
Keep going. 🙋🏽♂️
Great documentary!
Thank you
Powerful
Thank you 🙏🏾
Thank you 🙏🏾
This is very touching
Gamal, thank you for sharing your story. I found your account emotionally moving, inspiring and insightful. You are an amazing man.
Thank you 🙏🏾
That is exactly the sort of police officer the UK - and no doubt the world - needs.
the type to sell out fellow black people so he can climb the ladder only to pitymine when his career is done. nah.
What a beautiful TH-cam recommendation
WOW this is a very powerful and engrossing, honest documentary, which certainly has the potential to enlighten others, and made into a series or full length film. Thanks for the education you shared, and continue making a difference.
One Love, thank you for this. From Portugal.
Wow this was moving
Similar to Margaret Sanger's story, when she stood in line for a toy, and the Priest called her child of the devil; she said that's what caused hatred to well up inside of her.
Fantastic video. Thank you G. Powerful stuff.
Thank you 🙏🏾
Wow what a story. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏽
priceless value G as unique insights. Much else too you know 🙏🏾🙏🏾✊🏾✊🏾
BAFTA winner nice one BOOTLE UK
17:57 It was almost like everything that had happened in between had been a waste of time
Very powerful 💥 mind 🧠 opener... Bravo 👏🏾
I’m proud of him. It helps me deal with my own issues.
Excellent documentary. I know there's a bunch of AfroAmerican and BlacKKK cops in usa PDs that can relate to this video. I was thinking about how much revolutionary change he could've made if he were to band with his other "minority" coworkers if he was in touch with his Blackness and not his survival. Cuz we all surviving
I am and always have. Thank you 🙏🏾
I love that he is so honest because people see proud black people especially today but there are so many of us that relate to his struggle in not being proud of who you are or not wanting to be black because of XYZ. So I love this
Incredible film! Congratulations on the BAFTA!
Incredible
Proud of him it's hard when you have to give all of you to be what someone else needs or wants you to be it leaves you broken and not strong enough to fight your own battles..
Usually stuff like this ' moves ' me ..
.....this didn't.. I don't know why....
Wow
Wow, that was incredible. Inspirational.
Your truly an inspiration to many. Sorry to hear of your suffering over the years and thank you for paving the way for those coming after you. May you be blessed in all that you do x
Thank you 🙏🏾
A master story teller, inspirational, honest and brave. Thank you for your service.
Thank you 🙏🏾
@@gamalturawa6304 thank you for speaking and living your truth 💖
Wonderful documentary!
❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you 🙏🏾
Powerful.
Спасибо вам
Outstanding !
Wow! Usted es muy valiente. Esta película ayuda a ser menos racistas y homofobicos.
Thank you for enriching me with your compassion.
Big up the man what a story
ayo they filmed top boy in that school i just notice that
Thankyou for this story. And as for the Police. They might have done more than any other institution, but they certainly haven't done enough.
We need our own system
Respect everybody give hearts and love in the comments❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
That was interesting