Compensation

USA/1999—directed by Zeinabu irene Davis | 95 min.

A landmark of independent cinema, Compensation by Zeinabu irene Davis offers a poignant exploration of the lives of Deaf African Americans and the intricacies of love across two eras. Through remarkable dual performances by Michelle A. Banks and John Earl Jelks, the film tells the parallel stories of Malindy and Arthur in 1910 Chicago, and Malaika and Nico nearly 80 years later. 

Both couples navigate the challenges of Deaf and hearing experiences while confronting the weight of systemic racism during emerging pandemics. Restored with care by the UCLA Film and Television Archive, Compensation is a groundbreaking testament to resilience and a powerful meditation on the barriers that so often impede love.

We're honored to announce that director Zeinabu irene Davis will appear at the DFT in person to introduce the Sunday, April 13th presentation of Compensation at 2:00 pm, and will discuss the film with the audience following the screening.

“One of the greatest independent American films ever made.” –Richard Brody, The New Yorker