Product Description

Denzel Washington makes his triumphant directorial debut and Derek Luke shines in his first big-screen role in "one of the most touching, heartwarming films of the year." (Jeffrey Lyons, WNBC-TV) Inspired by the true life experiences of its title character, Antwone Fisher tells the dramatic story of a troubled sailer (Luke) who is ordered to see a naval psychiatrist (Washington) about his volatile temper. Little does he know that his first step into the doctor's office will lead him on a remarkable emotional journey to confront his painful past--and connect with the family he never knew.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #36043 in DVD
• Released on: 2003-05-20
• Rating: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
• Aspect ratio: 2.35:1
• Formats: Closed-captioned, Color, Dolby, DVD, Widescreen, NTSC
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 1
• Running time: 120 minutes

Amazon.com
Autobiographical movies rarely get more truthfully moving than Antwone Fisher. The title is also the name of this fine drama's first-time screenwriter, a former Navy seaman who was working as a film-studio security guard when his life-inspired script was developed as Denzel Washington's directorial debut. This Hollywood dream gets better: unbeknownst to the filmmakers, Derek Luke--a newcomer who won the title role over a throng of famous contenders--was also a friend of Fisher's, and the whole film seems blessed by this fortunate coincidence. Washington's sharp instincts as an actor serve him well, as both a subtle-handed director and Luke's costar playing Jerome Davenport, a Navy psychologist assigned to assess Fisher's chronic violent temper. Their therapy sessions prove mutually beneficial, as this touching true story addresses painful memories, broken desires, and heartfelt reunions without resorting to a contrived happy ending. Fisher's good life is worth celebrating, and Washington brings a delicate touch to the party. --Jeff Shannon

From The New Yorker
"Oprah" for men. Fisher's horrific childhood-he was abandoned by his mother and then sexually molested in his Cleveland foster home-gets the full Hollywood treatment in Denzel Washington's directorial début. The self-congratulatory autobiographical script, written by Fisher, concentrates on his relationship with a psychologist (played by Washington) who provides him with the key to conquering his past. Derek Luke, as the title character, and Joy Bryant, as his love interest, give performances that raise the film above its inspirational message, but just barely. Washington directs in his own image-the movie is sturdy and handsomely made, but lacks grit and complexity. -Bruce Diones
Copyright © 2006 The New Yorker

Customer Reviews

incredible film
It's a pity this film will be overlooked while the market is being flooded with war movies and a host of other films that cheapen humanity. Not only was it refreshing to see men portrayed in non-stereotypical ways (deep, sensitive, strong and wise) but doubly wonderful that the film featured black men in these roles. I was deeply moved by the story and it will stay with me for a long time to come. It's a story of true courage with not an ounce of exploitation or voyeurism. Stories like these have the power to heal and I'm grateful Antwone had the courage to share it with us.

Facing the Past and Confronting Inner Demons.
To be honest, I was a little hesitant to see "Antwone Fisher," the directorial debut by Denzel Washington. Movies directed by actors can be little more than self-serving vanity projects that merely say, "Hey! I'm an actor! And I can also direct! I'm so multitalented!" You can say the same thing about this movie, but you would be wrong. While it's a little sentimental at times, "Antwone Fisher" is one of the most heartfelt and genuine movies of 2002. Derek Luke is the title character, a young and hotheaded seaman who gets sent to Jerome Davenport (Washington) for psychiatric evaluation following a heated brawl with another soldier. From there, the two begin a painful journey that involves discovering the roots of Fisher's anger and, more important, the broken family that left him behind. It's often disturbing to see the psychological abuse Fisher suffered at the hands of his elders, and his strong will and tenacity make him all the more respectable. Luke gives a decidedly low-key yet strong performance and holds his own admirably against seasoned pro (and two-time Oscar winner) Washington. But if I have a slight bone to pick with this movie, it's that its plot has a bit of a "heard it before" feel. Several movies ("Good Will Hunting" comes to mind) have already featured a story about a troubled kid whose life gets turned around by an older mentor. Yet, "Antwone Fisher" earns its four stars thanks to its classy, non-flashy direction by Denzel and a solid performance by Luke.

breath-taking, original, heartfelt, unbelievable, amazing...
this movie is definitely one of THE BEST movies of the entire year...maybe even the 21st century...it's based on the true story of ANTWONE FISHER, who grew up in an incredibly unstable home, and had a very harsh childhood...it shows how he overcame what most would call the inevitable path toward a not-so-bright future...he ended up doing something honorable and worthy...it is a very touching movie, and i definitely had a tear or two in my eye...BRAVO!!! to Denzel Washington for his very successful directing-debut and two thumbs way up to newcomer Derek Luke who gave a surprisingly, one of a kind performance.....

this is definitely one of my all time faves!!!