Movie spotlight
Man and Boy
At the beginning of the 19th century a man and his son settle in Arizona which used to be a frontier state and full of criminals at that time.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young Black man (Bill Cosby) becomes involved with a charismatic but dangerous white lawyer (Gene Hackman) in the late 1940s. As their relationship deepens, the lawyer's manipulative nature and the racial tensions of the era begin to take a toll. The film explores themes of ambition, morality, and the complexities of interracial relationships in a society still deeply divided by prejudice.
Critical Reception
Man and Boy was a made-for-television film that garnered attention for its timely exploration of race relations and its strong performances, particularly from Bill Cosby and Gene Hackman. It was noted for tackling sensitive subject matter with a degree of nuance for its time, though its dramatic impact was sometimes tempered by the conventions of television drama.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its ambition in tackling racial themes.
Commended for strong performances by its lead actors.
Seen as a notable attempt at serious drama for television.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1971 television film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was one of Bill Cosby's early dramatic roles, showcasing his range beyond comedy before his massive success with 'The Cosby Show'.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources