Product Description

The first black union in America is formed when a journalist fights for the rights of Pullman porters during the Depression.
Genre: Feature Film-Drama
Rating: R
Release Date: 12-AUG-2003
Media Type: DVD

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #52404 in DVD
• Brand: VAN PEEBLES,MARIO
• Released on: 2003-08-12
• Rating: R (Restricted)
• Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
• Formats: Closed-captioned, Color, DVD, NTSC
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 1
• Dimensions: .24 pounds
• Running time: 89 minutes

From the Back Cover
When the Great Depression struck America in the 1920s finding work was hard, but if you were poor and black it was virtually impossible.

Working as a porter for the Pullman Rail Company was an option, but it meant taking home a third as much as while employees and working some days for free. You could forget about being called by your real name--all black porters were simply called "George" after George Pullman, the first person to employ emancipated slaves.

Asa Philip Randolph, a black journalist and educated socialist trying to establish a voice for these forgotten workers agrees to fight for the Pullman porters' cause and form the first black union in America. Livelihoods and lives would be put at risk in the attempt to gain 10,000 signatures of men known only as "George." This is the true story of how a courageous leader came to be known as "the most dangerous man in America."

Customer Reviews

Captivating!!!
A simple movie in a college, something other than the usual lecture, a few hours to relax during an early morning Saturday class... That's how this movie started; yet it opened my eyes, taught me some history and made me wonder where the strength of the "Georges" came from. Captivating, enjoyable and action packed, this story also teaches the viewer an important history lesson, as well as a lesson of life and freedom and our fellow man. Maybe the directing wasn't perfect - I don't remember. Maybe the actors weren't the best - I don't remember that either. But for what I walked away with - I give the movie: Five Stars!!!

Excellent film that should be watched!!!
It's the 1920's and finding work is hard, but if you are a black man it's even worse. So if you happen to have a job as a Pullman on the trains, you work that job with pride, you don't complain, and you keep your mouth shut. It does not matter that you have your own name, it does not matter that you are seen as less then a man, it does not matter you have dirty shoes thrown at you to shine, you smile and you take it. But what happens when you finally realize enough is enough? What can you do, who do you turn to, how much are you willing to sacrifice to get what you truly deserve? Will you continue to stand for what you believe in, no matter how much others will dissuade you, or beat you down?

Those are the questions that will be asked while watching this film. I found this to be a poignant film. I don't have Showtime, and I had never heard of this film, and found a copy in the library. I enjoyed this film so much I plan to add this to my collection. The historical content alone is what kept me riveted to the screen, and you feel the pain of the men in this film. I mean to have your own name, but to be called "George" every day, and working for a meager $60 a month? The acting in this film is stellar. The only reason I'm not giving this film a 5 is because I felt it could have been a little longer. Andre Braugher is a great actor, and one who should receive more accolades. Mario Van Peebles does his best performance in this film especially. Mario is an excellent actor who needs to make better film choices. I have yet to see Charles Dutton in a bad film role. This is a movie you must see!!!

Must see
Excellent - should be a must see for all high school seniors and college freshmen. This movie showcases excellent African-American talent as they present the hardships and struggles of A. Phillip Randolph and the Pullman Porters in trying to establish a union. It is an almost forgotten part of our history that should be remembered.