A Q&A with director Dee Rees and actors Mary J. Blige, Jason Clarke, Jason Mitchell, and Garrett Hedlund following a screening of Mudbound (2017). Moderated by Rajendra Roy. Rees arrived with a burst of energy and vision with her debut feature Pariah in 2011. With Mudbound, she delivers an epic narrative of American trauma and resilience, told with an intimate touch. Set in the aftermath of World War II in rural Mississippi, the film focuses on two families (one white and one black), each fighting for a dignified, fulfilled life. The conversation was part of MoMA Contenders, The Museum of Modern Art's renowned series of influential, innovative films from the past 12 months. Whether bound for awards glory or cult classic status, each of these films is a contender for lasting historical significance.