Nothing But a Man
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Movie Reviews of Nothing But a Man
Movie Review: Can't add much to what's been said but........
Summary: 5 Stars
It is a shame that Ivan Dixon is known for "Hogan's Heroes" by mass public and not much more (reminding me of great character actor James Edwards who most people will remember as the valet to George C. Scott in "Patton" who had some great roles in war films by Sam Fuller (he was great in "Shock Corridor as the Black Klansman) but Dixon who had great range and talent is only really known for a few bit parts and his great role in "Raisin In The Sun".But such was Hollywood.What is great is that this film was made (with a great supporting cast of fine African American Actors) showing how some great stuff got made if it didn't get wide distribution in early 60's.Perhaps Dixon might have gone on to get roles like Brock Peters,Ossie Davis or James Earl Jones but he made comfortable living in Hollywood a Director (The Waltons and Magnum P.I.) but one would have liked to see where he would have gone with more acting.Abbey?The Lena Horne of her generation a double threat as one of the top tiers jazz singers from the late 50's on I can't say her acting was impeccable but she had presence and charisma that would allow you to forget she was not Dorthy Dandridge or a Ruby Dee (who was?).In any case a left wing funded picture by progressives that eschews politics and "Black Power" for a timely treatment of the dignity of African Americans while people were still getting used to Sidney Poitier's "Good Negro" portrayals (and patting themselves on the back for it while Poitier was kept in a box with the exception of "Raisin In the Sun" and Heat Of The Night") this was an almost Cinema Verite that captured a story of realism,dignity and reality something that still a rare commodity in cinema when it comes to telling any "groups" story.Not "Citizen Kane" but that's not the point for what it is is great film (Boy I sound like a lecturer at film school- and next week class "A Killer Of Sheep").Get it or rent it.
Chazz
Movie Review: Groundbreaking film
Summary: 5 Stars
In 1964, when "Nothing But a Man" was released, it must have been a shock to see a film that presents a story focused on the lives of black characters, and does so with such vivid and unsparing authenticity. The film's power has faded little in over forty years and remains essential viewing for reasons that far exceed its historical importance. The story of a man who refuses to conform or give in but who breaks a little along the way as he ends up fighting everyone around him is told with such courage and honesty that you are hooked from the opening scenes. The direction is unobtrusive and the script manages to effectively walk the delicate balance between delivering a message without being heavy-handed. The actors in the film don't seem to have a lot of range but what they do, they do very effectively and are completely convincing.
I end up watching this film about once a decade (I've seen it three times). On both occasions as I anticipated watching it again I've thought it's not going to be as good as I remember it being. I've been wrong both times, rediscovering the film's force and seeing even more layers of subtlety as I watched it through the filter of my added experience. I can't recommend this film highly enough.
Movie Review: One of the best films about the Af/Am. experience
Summary: 5 Stars
Once you see this film you won't forget this! Low budget, but excellent and compelling story of a Black man (Ivan Dixon-best remembered as "Kinch" of "Hogan's Heroes") in the South who faces classism (he is a poor man who wants to marry a middle-class preacer's daughter played by Abbey Lincoln) as well as racism. When the local whites see that Dixon refuses to pay the "Uncle Tom game," the word gets out and he becomes unhirable.
This film examines a lot of issues in between all this, but I will spare all that for the viewer. You really have to see it. Lots of good atmospheric touches that makes the Southern urban ghetto scenery authentic, as well as the R&B and Gospel soundtrack. Look for Esther Rolle (Florida Evans from "Good Times") as an extra in a church scene.
Movie Review: Very Powerful Film
Summary: 5 Stars
this is the Kind of Film that while it is over 40 years Old, still reflects so much of what is going on today especially if you are a Black Man in America. this film pulls no punches and it shows the day to day grind of dealing in a cold unfair world. a very strong cast that balances out so much. very well paced film with strong direction and writing that could be anywhere from the 60's til today. very strong all Black cast and dealing with Everyday Life and it's challenges. this is One of the Best Put together casts that I have Ever seen in a Film. this Film is very Historic and Ground-Breaking. a must see classic that will get to your spirit and soul. also a Strong soundtrack.Movie Review: "A Typical Man"
Summary: 5 Stars
Yes I said it yes I did, as a well known radio talk show host says.
This was a good movie but, I didn't care to much for the way it
ended. This movie showed how a black man can get caught up in
the everyday struggles of life, and began to take it out on the one
who's closest to him and who has his back when times get hard, this
woman was always on the supporting end, never gave up on him through
his struggles with prejudice white folk. I was glad he was on the
way to getting his life in order. Good ole movie I'd say.
Wished there was a part 2 to this movie, I would definately buy it.
Lynn from OKC