On S List of Movie Reviews
(For optimum viewing, adjust the zoom level of your browser to 125%.)
Separate But Equal (1991)
Rate:
9
Viewed:
8/21
8/21:
If I'm disappointed by Marshall, Separate But Equal more than makes up for it.
This time, Thurgood Marshall appears before the Supreme Court and isn't so silent. It's the most famous case in the U.S.
history of education which began with Plessy v. Ferguson and concluded with Brown v. Board of Education. In
between is a 58-year black struggle for equal rights. The final verdict was the beginning of the end for racial segregation
that dominated race relations for so long in the United States.
Once again, Sidney Poitier is magnificent, recapturing the form that made him an icon during the 60's. I understand his
skin color doesn't match Thurgood Marshall, but I'm going to let it slide because of his performance and the seriousness
of the topic that's fitting for an actor of his stature. On the other hand, it's the final film of Burt Lancaster's career,
and he still got it. Of course, all actors playing the Supreme Court justices are outstanding.
What's impressive is the growth of the issue. It starts with a single plaintiff in 1947 taking
legal action against the inferior conditions that black children were being taught in Clarendon County, South Carolina. Over
time, more players become involved as the stakes are raised. Thanks to Chief Justice Earl Warren, the Supreme Court voted
unanimously (9-0) in favor of the plaintiffs after a series of long, deep deliberations about the federal-versus-state rights.
All in all, there's a lot to learn about the history of education and race relations in Separate But Equal.