The inkwell

Released in 1994 and directed by Matty Rich, The Inkwell is a coming-of-age film that offers a rare and refreshing take on Black adolescence. Set in the summer of 1976, the film follows 16-year-old Drew Tate (Larenz Tate), a socially awkward and introspective teenager who spends the summer with his upper-class relatives in Martha’s Vineyard. Specifically, they vacation at "The Inkwell," a historically Black beach community known for its vibrant culture and sense of camaraderie.

Throughout the summer, Drew navigates first love, family tensions, and the challenges of growing up. Coming from a politically radical household, he struggles to fit in with his more conservative relatives, creating a contrast that reflects the generational and ideological divides within Black communities during that era.

What makes The Inkwell stand out is its warmth, humor, and unique setting. Unlike many coming-of-age films that center on trauma, this movie offers a slice of joy, romance, and self-discovery against a backdrop of Black affluence and leisure—a narrative not often explored in mainstream cinema. Larenz Tate delivers a charming performance, and the film’s supporting cast, including Joe Morton, Vanessa Bell Calloway, and Jada Pinkett (before she was Smith), add depth to this heartfelt story.

While The Inkwell may not have received the same recognition as other 90s Black films, it remains a beloved classic for many who grew up watching it. It’s a nostalgic and lighthearted film that captures the magic of youth, summer love, and the beauty of Black communities thriving in their own spaces.