Where to watch Descendant in Australia
Stream now on NetflixNetflix
Subscription
Streaming availability data from JustWatch.
About Descendant
History exists beyond what is written. The Africatown residents in Mobile, Alabama, have shared stories about their origins for generations. Their community was founded by enslaved ancestors who were transported in 1860 aboard the last known and illegal slave ship, Clotilda. Though the ship was intentionally destroyed upon arrival, its memory and legacy weren’t. Now, the long-awaited discovery of the Clotilda’s remains offers this community a tangible link to their ancestors and validation of a history so many tried to bury.
- Year
- 2022
- Genres
- History, Documentary
- Runtime
- 111mins
- Director
- Margaret Brown
- Top cast
- Kamau Sadiki, Kern Jackson, Jim Delgado, Mary Elliott
Descendant trailer
Play video: Descendant trailer
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
Descendant is a poignant documentary that meticulously unearths the buried history of Africatown, Alabama. Directed by Margaret Brown, the film chronicles the emotional journey of a community that has long fought to preserve its legacy. The discovery of the Clotilda, the last known slave ship, serves as a catalyst for exploring deep-rooted issues of identity and heritage. The film's structure allows for a reflective pace, giving viewers the opportunity to absorb the gravity of the narratives being shared. The cinematography is striking, capturing both the beauty and the struggles of the community. Brown's direction is sensitive, weaving personal testimonies with historical context, making the film not just informative but also deeply moving. While it might be heavy for some, Descendant is an essential watch for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of American history and the ongoing impact of slavery.
Editor Team
★★★★★5/5
Wow! Descendant is an incredibly moving experience that resonates with anyone who cares about history and humanity. This documentary pulls you into the heart of Africatown, where the descendants of the last enslaved people fight to reclaim their narrative. The emotional weight of the film is palpable, as it blends personal stories with the monumental discovery of the Clotilda. Margaret Brown’s direction shines through as she allows the community's voices to take centre stage. The interviews are raw and powerful, evoking a spectrum of emotions from sorrow to pride. The cinematography beautifully contrasts the lush landscapes of Alabama with the harsh realities of the past. Descendant is not just a film; it’s a call to remember and honour those who came before us. I cannot recommend it highly enough-it's a vital piece of storytelling that everyone should see.
How viewers describe this
- powerful
- moving
- emotional
- significant
- enlightening
- poignant
- heavy
- reflective
- impactful
- necessary
- historical
- thought-provoking
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 36 | ||
| 02 | 55 | ||
| 03 | 131 | ||
| 04 | 241 | ||
| 05 | 323 | ||
| 06 | 503 | ||
| 07 | 618 | ||
| 08 | 647 |
Shows like Descendant
8.3America in Color
Warbird Workshop
The Dust Bowl
7.5The Life of Muhammad
8.2Benjamin Franklin
Julius Caesar: The Making of a Dictator
7.3Agents of Chaos
Canadian Made
8.4The Story of Film: An Odyssey
7.7Behind the Attraction
8.2Prohibition
Eyes on the Prize III: We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Rest 1977-2015
Deadly Intelligence
Britain's Lost Battlefields With Rob Bell
TV and movies like Descendant
Got a question about Descendant?
Is Descendant worth watching?
Yes, Descendant is worth watching for its powerful exploration of history and identity. The film offers a profound look into the lives of Africatown residents, connecting them to their ancestors through the discovery of the Clotilda. Its emotional depth and historical significance make it a compelling watch.
What is Descendant really about?
Descendant focuses on the community of Africatown in Mobile, Alabama, which was founded by descendants of enslaved people brought on the last known slave ship, the Clotilda. The film captures their stories and the impact of discovering the ship's remains, highlighting the importance of memory and legacy.
Is Descendant suitable for children?
Descendant may not be suitable for young children due to its themes of slavery, trauma, and historical injustices. Parents should consider the maturity of their children before viewing, as the film addresses heavy subjects that may require adult guidance.
What happens at the end of Descendant?
At the end of Descendant, the film reflects on the community's journey of reconciliation and understanding their heritage. The discovery of the Clotilda serves as both a painful reminder and a source of pride, allowing the residents to honour their ancestors while continuing to seek recognition and justice.
Where can I watch Descendant in Australia?
In Australia, Descendant is available for streaming on platforms like Netflix. Check your local listings for availability, as it may also be shown in select cinemas or film festivals.
What films are similar to Descendant?
Films similar to Descendant include 12 Years a Slave, Selma, and The 13th. These films explore themes of race, identity, and historical injustices, providing rich narratives that address the African American experience.
Is Descendant a documentary?
Yes, Descendant is a documentary film directed by Margaret Brown. It combines personal stories, historical context, and present-day explorations of identity, making it both informative and emotionally engaging.
What cultural impact has Descendant had?
Descendant has sparked conversations about the legacy of slavery and the importance of acknowledging history. Its release has raised awareness of the Africatown community and their ongoing struggle for recognition, making it a significant contribution to contemporary discussions on race and history.