Double Feature: But Make It Spooky (Blacula & Fledgling)

READ MO’ BLACK BOOKS

This idea came to me when I set out to rebuild my physical media collection. In an era where AI companies are consuming and altering books to train their models, preserving Black books and stories that reflect our lived experiences and imagination has been deeply important to me.

I didn’t want just any books or movies. I wanted tangible media in my home that felt nostalgic and familiar, pieces I could revisit time and again without tiring. At a pop-up we were a part of on Chicago's South Side, the phrase "Read Mo' Black Books" resonated deeply with the people who visited my table. That moment captures the heart of Pour Into It Media: celebrating and highlighting stories that truly feel like home.

For this box, we are pairing the 1972 classic film Blacula with Fledgling, the vampire science fiction novel by Octavia E. Butler.

Let me start by saying, I absolutely adore Octavia E. Butler. There was no way I was going to curate book boxes and NOT have a Butler novel included at some point. As someone who engages with a lot of fantasy and speculative fiction, I’m fascinated by the ethical dilemmas characters face. The classic battles between good and evil, right and wrong. But these dilemmas intensify when you begin to question whose morality takes precedence. Am I applying my own moral beliefs to the characters I read about, or am I stepping into theirs to navigate their world?

That's one of the questions that guided this pairing. As you move through this box, take your time to fully immerse yourself in this story. Truly questioning how you feel about each character, and what each story tells us about consent and connecting with others. 

Each bundle is curated to deliver a complete movie & reading experience:

• The Novel: A paperback edition of Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler

• The Film: Blacula (1972) on DVD.

• A Lil Movie Snack: Artisan movie night popcorn from a Black-owned, family-founded brand honoring Gullah Geechee culinary heritage (with a portion of sales donated to Gullah cultural preservation).

• To Reflect & Ponder: A mini African-print pocket notebook, and a library-themed mini notebook for your personal reflections. A vintage-inspired library checkout card, a greeting card, a book-review bookmark, a pen, and vinyl stickers.

• A Letter From Me: Historically, I've always been someone who talks during movies. (I know, I know. We're not supposed to.) But I couldn't curate this box and NOT talk through the thought behind this pairing. Since I won't be in your home to talk to you as you watch this movie and read this book, the letter is the next best thing. I'll walk you through the intention behind this pairing and include a reflection on a question that I would normally ask people as we watch the movie. 

Intentionally and thoughtfully sourced, hand-wrapped in craft paper, twine, and custom Pour Into It wax-sealed packaging.