Product Details

• Actors: C.C. Carter
• Directors: Yvonne Welbon
• Format: Black & White, Color, Drama enhanced, Full length, NTSC
• Number of tapes: 1
• VHS Release Date: June 24, 1999
• Run Time: 60 minutes
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• ASIN: 0967597609
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #317,979 in Movies & TV (See Top 100 in Movies & TV)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

In this charming documentary, Ruth Ellis, a 100-year-old African American lesbian, recounts her life. As a lesbian academic interviewed in the documentary puts it, "Ruth is a gift to us" as she is able to tell what it was like to suffer "triple oppression, being a woman, being black, and being a lesbian." Ellis tells about discovering her sexuality some 80 years ago, and when discussing her romantic involvements (which included one relationship lasting 35 years), she is utterly honest. At one point she is even asked about the last time she had sex, and she replies it was when she was 95, adding with a laugh, "that was a one-night stand." A businesswoman, Ellis lived openly as a lesbian and often played host for an active social circle of gays and lesbians in Detroit at a time when mainstream America scarcely acknowledged the existence of the community. The film is illustrated with vintage photographs of Ellis, her family, lovers, and friends, and footage shot in the present day shows her at dance class, having fun at her favorite bowling alley, and shooting pool with friends. This is an engaging look at a special character, a woman who was always true to herself. --Robert J. McNamara

From the Back Cover

Living With Pride: Ruth Ellis @ 100 is an one hour documentary about the life and times of Ruth Ellis. Born July 23, 1899, in Springfield, Illinois, she is the oldest "out" African American lesbian known. In addition to exploring her rich past, the film offers a rare opportunity to experience a century of our history as lived by one inspiring woman. By example, Ruth Ellis shows us what is possible and what can be realized, if one not only lives long and ages well but also lives with pride.

Winner- Best Documentary - 1999 Frameline: San Francisco Gay & Lesbian Film Fest Winner- Outstanding Documentary Video - Outfest '99 L.A. Gay & Lesbian Film Fest Official Selection Toronto International Film Festival

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fabulous & touching!, October 22, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Living With Pride: Ruth Ellis @ 100 [VHS] (VHS Tape)

The life of Ruth Ellis, a 100-year-old African-American lesbian, is beautifully portrayed in this film. It's wonderful & touching--a great perspective on both black & queer history. This bridges both generational & racial gaps. And the woman herself is awesome, funny & quick-witted. You won't regret seeing it!!

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderfully Inspiring Movie, August 1, 2001

By 

"mjsma" (Springfield, VA United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Living With Pride: Ruth Ellis @ 100 [VHS] (VHS Tape)

I would thoroughly recommend this video. Ruth was an amazing woman for so many reasons. Not the least of which is her inspiring courage in living her life as an "out" lesbian for over a century. Not to mention the other aspects of her life as an entreprenuer, homeowner and spiritual person. I aspire to be like her and hopefully, live my life with as much pride and dignity as Ruth. The movie is well done and a joy to watch. The best scenes are those with Ruth herself, as she describes her life past and present with humor, candor and wit. We love you Ruth!!

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A great portrait of a great lady, September 4, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Living With Pride: Ruth Ellis @ 100 [VHS] (VHS Tape)

This video is a graceful and loving portrait of a woman who has created history just by being herself. Living with Pride captures the sheer beauty of Ruth Ellis' life and should be required viewing in any class on not just GLBT history but post-Civil War African American history as well. She is a true inspiration not just to black gays and lesbians but to all who want to know the "secret" of living a long, dignified, truth-filled and healthy life. Ruth is now 101 years old....Wow!