Minstrel Man (1977)
Two black brothers in a traveling minstrel show in the early part of the twentieth century have two different goals. One brother is determined to succeed in a field that is dominated by white performers in blackface, and the other is a composer fighting to break away from the stereotypes associated with black minstrel performers.
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I've heard that Bill Cosby has bought up many films that he considers to have cast a demeaning light upon many of our great African-American performers, such as old favorites like the TV "Amos & Andy" shows and other great African-American productions. Sadly, he is doing a great injustice to the people whom he is attempting to protect, as he is depriving them the recognition that they so richly deserve and at the same time depriving the viewing public its opportunity of viewing enjoyment, for which those productions were purposefully made. I fear that the 1977 TV movie, "Minstrel Man" has been confiscated into the collection of Mr.Cosby, much to the detrimental void he has created for the rest of us. If I am wrong - then to where has it disappeared?Anonymous
For more than two decades, I have searched for my favorite movie, The Minstrel Man (1977), to be either televised or made available for purchase. An excellent performance was done by the cast of this film. This is a "heart-gripping" movie, that defines the inhumanity and positive evils of racism. This film exhibits Black Americans, as working, inventive, compassionate and creative human beings through horrific adversities, and yet they defy to totally release their integrity.The Entertainment Industry has the audacity to act insulted by acusations like, "it is directly or indirectly at fault for creating and perpetuating monsters in the world". You are surely mentors of today's media. This is a small opportunity to right a big wrong.I guess I answered my Summary?!
Where, oh where, can I find this film? I saw it long ago on TV--it was a tremendously moving, thoughtful, and painfully honest drama about race relations during the period it portrays. Beautifully acted and absolutely authentic in spirit. But it seems to have vanished forever.
It's too bad this TV movie has gotten lost and is unavailable on video--Maltin used to list it, and called it "outstanding". A touring minstrel company in the early part of the twentieth century is the focus; its experiences are used to dramatize the reality of racial relations in America; it resonates even today. It is honest, funny, and tragic. Somebody reissue it!