The Passing On (2020)

It's the end only if you let it be the end.

The Passing On (2020) poster

Three professions ushered Black former slaves from poverty to the American dream: preacher, teacher, and undertaker. Today, renowned embalmer James Bryant puts his faith in a new generation to continue this vanishing legacy. However, his young intern, Clarence Pierre, meets him with resistance, conflicted about his commitment to carrying on embalming traditions and the judgment he feels from the Black community as a queer, Christian man. Taking place in the oldest Black funeral home in San Antonio, this poetic documentary examines the waning tradition of African American funeral homes.

Director: Nathan Clarke
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 70 min
Release Date:
Editing: Tyler Trumbo
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Nathan Clarke
More Films in Genre: Documentary

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Passing On about?
Three professions ushered Black former slaves from poverty to the American dream: preacher, teacher, and undertaker. Today, renowned embalmer James Bryant puts his faith in a new generation to continue this vanishing legacy. However, his young intern, Clarence Pierre, meets him with resistance, conflicted about his commitment to carrying on embalming traditions and the judgment he feels from the Black community as a queer, Christian man. Taking place in the oldest Black funeral home in San Antonio, this poetic documentary examines the waning tradition of African American funeral homes.
Who directed The Passing On?
The Passing On was directed by Nathan Clarke.
How long is The Passing On?
The Passing On has a runtime of 1h 10m (70 minutes).
What genre is The Passing On?
The Passing On is a Documentary film.