Interview: HBO’s ‘Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project’ Filmmakers

Nikki Giovanni is arguably one of the greatest poets to ever live. Now, her inspiring life story, prolific poems and literary gifts are being showcased in HBO’s new documentary, “Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project.”

Produced and directed by Michèle Stephenson and Joe Brewster, the critically-acclaimed film takes viewers on an imaginative out-of-this-world journey that transcends space and time to uncover her enduring impact and undeniable influence on American culture.

Peppered with captivating archival footage and creative visual treatments of her work, the 104-minute project is a poignant expression of love and reverence. What’s more, it highlights Giovanni’s dedication to justice, featuring poems from pivotal moments in history including the Civil Rights and Black Lives Matter movements.

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the filmmakers to get their insights on their inspiration behind the movie, what they hope audiences take from the unique film, and more.

Check out our enlightening Q&A:

Brown Girl Gumbo: Tell me how this project came to be. Did the process always include a time travel aspect?

Michèle Stephenson & Joe Brewster: After completing our 13-year-long observational film, “American Promise,” which centered on Black male achievement, we were searching for a new project. Our initial idea was to create a musical genre film, but we encountered difficulties in obtaining the necessary musical licensing commitments from artists. One morning, while listening to an NPR broadcast, we were struck by the musicality of Nikki’s poetry. We contacted her manager and received a response within a week – Nikki was interested in working with us.

BGG: Why was it important to tell Ms. Giovanni’s story in this way?

MS and JB: Initially, we chose not to prioritize continuity editing in our documentary because we wanted to explore our creativity as filmmakers. We believe that centering the film around a linear timeline would limit our possibilities, as our day-to-day lives are not lived in a linear fashion. For instance, when walking to the supermarket to buy soap, one may dream about soap they had in the past or consider how they’ll use soap in the future. Non-linear storytelling is not uncommon and allows us to tell the story with infinitely more creativity.

BGG: Describe “Going to Mars” in a four words.

MS and JB: A Black love song.

BGG: What can viewers expect when they watch this film?

MS and JB: When you watch this documentary film, be prepared to have your perspective challenged and to see the world from a different angle. Nikki Giovanni’s poetry is thought-provoking and urges us to question the status quo. Poetry has the power to make us reevaluate our choices and beliefs, and that’s precisely what Nikki Giovanni’s poetry accomplishes. Additionally, you should anticipate laughing, getting angry, and even shedding tears throughout this 104-minute journey. Maybe they should expect to be unapologetically self-assured.

BGG: Congratulations on winning the Grand Jury Prize for Best U.S. Documentary at Sundance and being on the Oscars shortlist. What is it like to be recognized in this way?

MS and JB: We are proud to receive these honors and many more. We acknowledge the support that we have received from our peers and fans. However, we understand that the honors can be taken from us and that our affirmation must come from within. Unfortunately, internal affirmation doesn’t come with a plaque or trophy. Some of our greatest moments will come when we challenge orthodoxy and risk cancellation. I hope we are ready when the time comes.

BGG: Why is it so important for you to tell the stories of people across the Black diaspora?

MS and JB: White supremacy has been able to thrive through the control and centering of information. White supremacy devalues our history and our sense of self, as well as decreases our hopes and aspirations. Counter-narratives or stories that reflect our achievements are key elements in elevating the hopes and dreams of future generations. This is often difficult because we do not own the media outlets nor the power to authorize the placement of our stories on these media outlets. But remember, it was the poets, the griots, and the preachers who traditionally delivered the messages of hope to our communities.

Watch the trailer below: