Native Son

Synopsis

In the 1930s Chicago, Bigger Thomas, a young African American man, gets a job as a chauffeur for a wealthy white family – a decision that will change his life forever. As Bigger grapples with societal expectations and racial prejudices, a tragic event sets off a chain reaction that will test his morality and confront him with the harsh realities of the world he inhabits. Native Son delves deep into the systemic racism and oppression faced by Black Americans, exploring themes of identity, power, and the struggle for acceptance in a prejudiced society. With a powerful narrative and compelling characters, Native Son is a thought-provoking drama that leaves a lasting impact on its audience.

Cast

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  Victor Love

  Bigger Thomas

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  Matt Dillon

  Jan

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  Elizabeth McGovern

  Mary Dalton

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  Geraldine Page

  Peggy

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  Oprah Winfrey

  Mrs. Thomas

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  Akosua Busia

  Bessie

Reviews

Native Son, directed by Jerrold Freedman and starring Victor Love, drew mixed reviews upon its release in 1986. While some critics praised the film's bold approach in tackling racial issues and its strong performances, others felt that it fell short in capturing the complexity of Richard Wright's iconic novel. Rotten Tomatoes gave the movie a 50% rating, with some reviewers applauding its relevance to contemporary society, while others criticized its pacing and character development. IMDb users rated Native Son 6.0/10, with opinions ranging from heartfelt commendations to lukewarm responses. Despite its shortcomings, Native Son remains a seminal work in exploring the struggles faced by African Americans in a racially divided world.

See also

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider - The Cradle of Life

Lethal Weapon 2

Eragon

Take the Money and Run