What It’s About
“Compensation” presents two stories involving a relationship between a deaf woman and a hearing man, both black and settled in Chicago. In 1910, seamstress Malindy Brown (Banks) meets Arthur Jones (Jelks), who works in the stockyards, and a deep connection forms. Fast-forward to present day, as librarian Nico Jones (Jelks) falls hard for graphic artist Malaika Brown (Banks). Alternating between couples and periods, we witness the profound challenge they face of bridging deaf and hearing worlds, even as they experience prejudice and other hurdles.
Why We Love It
Even as it presents two couples persevering against stiff odds, Davis’s brilliant film manages to be uplifting and life-affirming. In the face of inequality and injustice, these characters remain decent, solid human beings, particularly Malindy and Malaiko, whose inner strength and pride help overcome three inherent “disadvantages”: being deaf, African American and a woman. An independent film shot on a tiny budget, Davis makes miracles, paying tribute to silent film with black-and-white photography, intertitles, and an evocative piano score by Reginald Robinson. Shot in 1993, it’s a crime this unique, unforgettable film didn’t receive a theatrical release until 2025. Better late than never – see it now!