Verdict:The First World Festival of Negro Arts is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 7.0/10, it has delivered a compelling experience for fans of the Documentary genre.
Answer: Yes, The First World Festival of Negro Arts is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 40 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 1966, The First World Festival of Negro Arts enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on "This documentary film covers a 24-day arts festival in Dakar, Senegal that highlighted Black contributions to the cultural heritage of mankind and was attended by an extraordinary cast of over 2,000 luminaries - including Duke Ellington, Langston Hughes, Alvin Ailey, Aime Cesaire, and Leopold Senghor - from dozens of countries. Under the direction of William Greaves, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from William Greaves. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, The First World Festival of Negro Arts offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Beyond the narrative, The First World Festival of Negro Arts resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, The First World Festival of Negro Arts is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of The First World Festival of Negro Arts centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. "This documentary film covers a 24-day arts festival in Dakar, Senegal that highlighted Black contributions to the cultural heritage of mankind and was attended by an extraordinary cast of over 2,000 luminaries - including Duke Ellington, Langston Hughes, Alvin Ailey, Aime Cesaire, and Leopold Senghor - from dozens of countries. The film depicts performances by African and American entertainers and shows various works of art while also providing unparalleled insight from the perspective of the African American delegation. The film was written and directed by William Greaves" (US National Archives). The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1966 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of The First World Festival of Negro Arts has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The First World Festival of Negro Arts sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for The First World Festival of Negro Arts (1966): with an audience rating of 7/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Documentary cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7/10, and global collection metrics, The First World Festival of Negro Arts stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1966 cinematic year.
The First World Festival of Negro Arts is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Documentary movies.
Yes, The First World Festival of Negro Arts is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Documentary cinema.
The First World Festival of Negro Arts may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
The First World Festival of Negro Arts is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Documentary movies.
Yes, The First World Festival of Negro Arts is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Documentary cinema.
The First World Festival of Negro Arts may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
The First World Festival of Negro Arts is a Documentary movie that follows: "This documentary film covers a 24-day arts festival in Dakar, Senegal that highlighted Black contributions to the cultural heritage of mankind and was attended by an extraordinary cast of over 2,000 ...
The First World Festival of Negro Arts is classified as Documentary. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
The First World Festival of Negro Arts is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
"This documentary film covers a 24-day arts festival in Dakar, Senegal that highlighted Black contributions to the cultural heritage of mankind and was attended by an extraordinary cast of over 2,000 luminaries - including Duke Ellington, Langston Hughes, Alvin Ailey, Aime Cesaire, and Leopold Senghor - from dozens of countries. The film depicts performances by African and American entertainers and shows various works of art while also providing unparalleled insight from the perspective of the African American delegation. The film was written and directed by William Greaves" (US National Archives).
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