Cry, the Beloved Country
Cry, the Beloved Country

Movie spotlight

Cry, the Beloved Country

1951
Movie
103 min
English

In the back country of South Africa, black minister Stephen Kumalo journeys to the city to search for his missing son, only to find his people living in squalor and his son a criminal. Reverend Misimangu is a young South African clergyman who helps find his missing son-turned-thief and sister-turned-prostitute in the slums of Johannesburg.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Zoltan KordaGenres: Drama, History

Plot Summary

In apartheid-era South Africa, a black Zulu pastor, Stephen Kumalo, travels to Johannesburg to find his son, who is involved in a crime. His journey leads him to confront the injustices and racial tensions of the time, ultimately seeking reconciliation with a white landowner whose son was murdered by his own.

Critical Reception

The film was a significant and emotionally resonant portrayal of the social and racial injustices in South Africa. It was praised for its powerful performances, particularly from Canada Lee and Sidney Poitier, and its unflinching look at the country's apartheid system. While its release in South Africa was restricted due to its controversial themes, it garnered international acclaim for its humanistic approach and its plea for understanding.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its potent exploration of racial injustice and the human cost of apartheid.

  • Commended for the powerful performances of its lead actors, embodying the struggle for dignity.

  • Recognized as a courageous and moving cinematic adaptation of a significant novel.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in South Africa, which was unusual for the time and added to its authenticity, though the production faced considerable resistance and censorship from the South African government.

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