The Watermelon Woman

The Watermelon Woman is a 1996 American romantic comedy-drama film written, directed, and edited by Cheryl Dunye, marking the first feature film directed by a Black lesbian. The film stars Dunye as a young Black lesbian working at a video store in Philadelphia who becomes obsessed with uncovering the identity of Fae Richards, a Black actress from the 1930s known for playing stereotypical "mammy" roles. Through her research and interviews, Dunye discovers that Fae was not only a talented actress but also a lesbian and a pioneering figure in Black women's history. With its blend of humor, drama, and romance, The Watermelon Woman is a vibrant celebration of Black lesbian culture and a landmark film in New Queer Cinema.