
Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave 2010
Dive into the gripping true-crime documentary *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave* (2010), directed by Ayana O'Shun, where history collides with drama in a haunting exploration of Canada's dark past.
Director: Ayana O'Shun
Cast



Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave* (2010) about?
This documentary-drama unravels the 18th-century trial of Marie-Josèphe Angélique, a Black slave accused of burning down Montreal in 1734. Through a dramatic retelling of her trial and torture, the film exposes racial bias and questions whether Angélique was framed for a crime she didn't commit.
Who directed *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave*?
Ayana O'Shun directed this thought-provoking film, masterfully blending historical research with cinematic storytelling.
Who stars in *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave*?
The film features Ayana O'Shun, Franck Sylvestre, Nicolas Germain-Marchand, Sonia Gadbois, and Sounia Balha in pivotal roles.
Is *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave* (2010) worth watching?
As a 52-minute documentary-drama, it offers a compelling mix of historical depth and dramatic tension. While unrated, its themes of injustice and resilience make it a poignant watch for fans of documentaries and historical dramas alike.
How long is *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave*?
The runtime for *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave* is 52 minutes.
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About Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave (2010) — A Haunting True Story of Injustice and Defiance
Dive into the gripping true-crime documentary *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave* (2010), directed by Ayana O'Shun, where history collides with drama in a haunting exploration of Canada's dark past. This 52-minute film follows the harrowing story of Marie-Josèphe Angélique, a defiant Black slave wrongly accused of setting Montreal ablaze in 1734. Tortured into a forced confession, she was sentenced to death, but was she truly guilty—or a pawn in a sinister conspiracy? The documentary unflinchingly examines racial injustice and systemic oppression, blending chilling reenactments with expert analysis to expose a long-suppressed chapter of Canadian history. The film's somber tone and relentless pacing make it a must-watch for history buffs and social justice advocates alike.
Ayana O'Shun's meticulous direction, coupled with standout performances by Franck Sylvestre, Nicolas Germain-Marchand, and Sonia Gadbois, anchors this powerful narrative. *Black Hands: Trial of the Arsonist Slave* isn't just a retelling of a 300-year-old trial; it's a mirror held up to modern-day apathy and historical erasure. With its documentary-drama hybrid style, the film challenges viewers to question what we've been taught—and what we've chosen to forget.