It all begins with an idea.
“This is a day I’ve been looking forward to for 22 years. We are thrilled to see ‘Mister Abbott’ reach a wider audience through AMC+.” Kurt Roger Cherry, Executive Producer
Wimp added “ … creating 'Mister Abbott' was a journey of passion, perseverance, and love. I was drawn to the story as a filmmaker and educator, but also because of a personal connection. My great-great-grandmother plays a role in these pages left out of this American story. Our team sought to honor Mr. Abbott, a humble man who found his voice through the Chicago Defender—literally reshaping America by inspiring the Great Migration. It’s a story that 'reveals so many questions, hidden by the answers' still present in our society today. We hope the film informs the audience of Mr. Abbott’s story, but more importantly, we hope it moves people.”
Pat Wimp, Director, Narrator, Writer
“Mister Abbott is a lyrically infused, short-form documentary that delves into the life of Robert Sengstacke Abbott, the visionary founder and publisher of the Chicago Defender. ”
What People Are Saying
I watched it this morning (and few parts more than once). It's terrific work, and I thought your contributions added some great spice to the script. Your camera presence is simply riveting. That Abbott is more influential than Du Bois inside your community seemed to me to be your most impactful point. And the graphics and verse rhymes had to widen the age range of those who will embrace the film.
Congrats on producing such a fine work alongside Mr. Wimp.
With respect,
Larry
— Larry Rodgers, Former Dean, Oregon State University
What People Are Saying
What a fabulous piece on Abbott and his influence, CONGRATULATIONS.
— Lester H. McKeever
What People Are Saying
Hi Kurt and (Tougaloo College) classmates,
Kurt, thanks for sharing the info regarding Mister Abbott. I started the 7 day free trial for AMC+ via Amazon Prime Video and watched the documentary last night.
"When we try to tell our story, the story of America, the story of Black Americans, we often find pages left out ... may be ripped or may be torn, may be burned. Mister Abbott's page is not ripped out. It's just hard to find."
Many of us are familiar with The Chicago Defender. Thanks to you and Bonnie for helping us find Mister Abbott. I enjoyed learning about his legacy.
— BAJ Lowery Battle