Shadrach

Synopsis

In the 1930s South, a young boy named Paul Bentley develops an extraordinary bond with an old former slave named Shadrach. Shadrach comes back to the plantation of the family as promised to die there. Despite the prejudice and societal norms of the time, the boy's devotion to fulfill Shadrach's final wish becomes a powerful and moving tale of friendship, loyalty, and acceptance. As the family faces their own challenges during the Great Depression, their interactions with Shadrach lead to moments of self-discovery and understanding that transcend generations and societal divisions.

Cast

• 

  Harvey Keitel

  Vernon

• 

  Andie MacDowell

  Trixie

• 

  Martin Sheen

  Narrator (voice)

• John Franklin Sawyer

  Shadrach

• 

  Scott Terra

  Paul

• Ginnie Randall

  Virginia

Reviews

Shadrach, directed by Susanna Styron and starring Harvey Keitel, received a mixed response from critics. While some praised the film for its poignant storytelling and powerful performances, others found it lacking in depth and emotional impact. Roger Ebert from the Chicago Sun-Times gave the film 3/4 stars, commending the cast's performances and the film's touching exploration of friendship. On the other hand, Variety criticized the slow pacing and lack of character development. Despite the mixed reviews, Shadrach managed to capture the essence of human connection and the complexities of racial dynamics in the 1930s South.