Movie spotlight
The Old Settler
The Old Settler is the story of two middle-aged sisters, Elizabeth and Quilly, who share an apartment in Harlem in 1943. The sisters quarrel amiably, but they share a wounded history that becomes revealed as the tale unfolds. An earnest but unworldly young man named Husband travels up from the South to board with the sisters while he searches for his beloved Lou Bessie, who left their small town a few years back to find a new life. Husband would like to bring Lou Bessie back home, but she's enamored with the excitement of the city, and her plans are more complicated. In time, Elizabeth and Husband begin a courtship that may or may not overcome their considerable age difference, while Quilly reacts disapprovingly.
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Plot Summary
In 1940s Los Angeles, a Jewish woman named Bessie, who owns a struggling dress shop, takes in a struggling African American musician named Jack as a boarder. As they spend time together, Bessie finds herself falling for Jack, a complex relationship that challenges the societal norms of the era. Their bond grows amidst the backdrop of World War II, offering a poignant look at love, prejudice, and companionship across racial and cultural divides.
Critical Reception
The Old Settler was a made-for-television movie that garnered modest attention for its sensitive portrayal of an interracial romance during a time of significant social division. While not a major critical darling, it was appreciated for its performances and its thoughtful exploration of themes like love, prejudice, and the search for belonging.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its touching portrayal of an unlikely romance.
Applauded for addressing themes of race and prejudice with sensitivity.
The performances of the lead actors were often highlighted as a strong point.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews and summaries is not readily available for this made-for-television film.
Fun Fact
The film was adapted from a play by the same name, written by John Patrick.
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