Orange Mound Black Memphis Hollywood: A Beacon of Black Filmmaking Culture
Nestled in the heart of Orange Mound, Memphis, at 1035 Semmes Street, stands a testament to the enduring spirit of Black creativity and independence in filmmaking. This is the story of Orange Mound Black Memphis Hollywood, a cultural hub that has become synonymous with the pioneering efforts of Black filmmakers in Memphis, Tennessee.
The journey began with Anthony “Amp” Elmore, a visionary who first made his mark at 970 Semmes Street in 1972. By 1981, Elmore had moved to 1035 Semmes Street, a location that would soon become a landmark in the annals of independent theatrical filmmaking in Memphis. It was here that Elmore brought ESPN to Memphis, claiming the PKA world title in 1982 and setting the stage for a revolution in Black cinema.
In 1988, from the very same location, Elmore created “The Contemporary Gladiator,” the first kickboxing film in world film history. This groundbreaking work not only showcased Elmore’s multifaceted talents but also transformed his home into a comprehensive Hollywood film set. The film crew lived on-site, and scenes were shot within the walls that had witnessed Elmore’s rise to prominence.
Nestled in the heart of Orange Mound, Memphis, at 1035 Semmes Street, stands a testament to the enduring spirit of Black creativity and independence in filmmaking. This is the story of Orange Mound Black Memphis Hollywood, a cultural hub that has become synonymous with the pioneering efforts of Black filmmakers in Memphis, Tennessee.
The journey began with Anthony “Amp” Elmore, a visionary who first made his mark at 970 Semmes Street in 1972. By 1981, Elmore had moved to 1035 Semmes Street, a location that would soon become a landmark in the annals of independent theatrical filmmaking in Memphis. It was here that Elmore brought ESPN to Memphis, claiming the PKA world title in 1982 and setting the stage for a revolution in Black cinema.
In 1988, from the very same location, Elmore created “The Contemporary Gladiator,” the first kickboxing film in world film history. This groundbreaking work not only showcased Elmore’s multifaceted talents but also transformed his home into a comprehensive Hollywood film set. The film crew lived on-site, and scenes were shot within the walls that had witnessed Elmore’s rise to prominence.
Today, Elmore is working on “Rock and Roll a Black Legacy,” a film that continues to highlight the Black origins of rock and roll music. In a bold move that mirrors the audacity of his films, Elmore painted his house orange, weaving the vibrant color into the narrative of his latest cinematic venture.
But Elmore’s contributions extend far beyond a single hue or film. He has created hundreds of documentary films, each one a thread in the rich tapestry of Black history and culture. 1035 Semmes Street is more than a location; it is a film culture and studio base where artists meet, shoot, converse, and breathe life into stories that resonate with authenticity and passion.
Orange Mound Black Memphis Hollywood is not just a place; it’s a movement. It’s a film studio where Memphis’s filmmaking culture thrives, where discussions about the craft are as essential as the films themselves. It’s a place where Black filmmakers can find their voice, tell their stories, and be part of a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
This is our story, a narrative steeped in history and alive with the promise of the future. We invite the City of Memphis to rightfully acknowledge 1035 Semmes Street in Orange Mound as the birthplace of independent theatrical filmmaking in Memphis—a place where dreams are captured on film and where every frame is a celebration of Black excellence.
But Elmore’s contributions extend far beyond a single hue or film. He has created hundreds of documentary films, each one a thread in the rich tapestry of Black history and culture. 1035 Semmes Street is more than a location; it is a film culture and studio base where artists meet, shoot, converse, and breathe life into stories that resonate with authenticity and passion.
Orange Mound Black Memphis Hollywood is not just a place; it’s a movement. It’s a film studio where Memphis’s filmmaking culture thrives, where discussions about the craft are as essential as the films themselves. It’s a place where Black filmmakers can find their voice, tell their stories, and be part of a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
This is our story, a narrative steeped in history and alive with the promise of the future. We invite the City of Memphis to rightfully acknowledge 1035 Semmes Street in Orange Mound as the birthplace of independent theatrical filmmaking in Memphis—a place where dreams are captured on film and where every frame is a celebration of Black excellence.
