This is the screenplay of the movie. In short, it is a combination of published and unfinished work by James Baldwin. If you have read Baldwin's other work, than this is something that will repeat parts of that work. It's not bad. It is an excellent companion to the film.

adaptation of the documentary. bit odd

This book is a companion to the documentary film. I saw the film before buying this book. I like the book becausd it allows me to revisit and ponder the words (and a few of the images) from the film.

But...the film is so much more powerful! The combination of words, sounds, and images create juxtapositions that hit you hard. Go see the movie, then buy this book so you have a way to refer back to the movie. Better yet, read the Library of America volumes of Baldwin's collected works.

Heart-wrenchingly good.

I need to see the film. I thought the book would be a good enough experience and it was a fantastic read, but I have to hear Samuel L. Jackson and see and hear Baldwin himself. The barista at my bagel place and I bonded over this book, and he recommended another to me. It was nice. This was a quick but heavy read.