Black or White
Black or White
PG-13 | 30 January 2015 (USA)
Black or White Trailers

A grieving widower is drawn into a custody battle over his granddaughter, whom he helped raise her entire life.

Reviews
gradyharp

Writer director Mike Binder has created one of more sensitive films dealing with racial issues yet to be made. He has produced a story, directed it with such sensitivity with an outstanding cast that it absolutely serves not only every ward the film industry can give but also the recognition of everyone working for equal rights. The script is brilliant, rich in humor and pathos, and very, very intelligent.The synopsis is too brief but offers the flavor of the film: 'BLACK OR WHITE is the story of a grandfather Elliot (Kevin Costner) who when his wife Carol (Jennifer Ehle) is killed in an automobile accident is suddenly left to care for his beloved granddaughter Eloise (Jillian Estell) – a child born to their daughter impregnated at age 17 by an African American junkie Reggie (André Holland): the daughter dies in childbirth and who died in childbirth. When her paternal grandmother Rowena (Octavia Spencer) seeks custody with the help of her brother Jeremiah (Anthony Mackie), the little girl is torn between two families who love her deeply. With the best intentions at heart, both families fight for what they feel is right and are soon forced to confront their true feelings about race, forgiveness, and understanding. Anchored by an all-star cast and based on real events, the movie is a look at two seemingly different worlds, in which nothing is as simple as black or white.'In addition to the brilliant cast listed above there are cameos by some rather extraordinary actors – Paula Newsome (a gifted and rising star who plays the judge), Mpho Koaho who plays Eloise's tutor, and Joe Chrest – Elliot's attorney partner and best friend.The film belongs to Costner, Spencer and Estell – and it could not be in stronger hands. Highly Recommended.

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Lorianna Gold

Thank you Kevin Costner for such a wonderful touching moving movie. A great Dad by Mr.Costner is a real fighter for his sweet little granddaughter, the only close person he has. Such a great performance by the wonderful actors, I couldn't help crying at some moments. Its terrible that the race problem is still occurred day by day but its really good that people (actors, writers whoever) care about it and try to fight the problem their way. And yes I would definitely recommend the movie to others because thats one of those touching movies one will never forget and will watch it again and again. 10 out 10. Thank u Kevin! Ure the greatest!

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chickenlittle-309-990263

I'm sorry people, but this movie is nothing more than a vehicle for Kevin Costner and Octavia whatever her name is to do some "acting". There is nothing real about this film, everyone is a caricature. The white people, the black people. You never feel for a second that either grand parent loves the girl.(who is also a caricature and is the wisest, most well spoken 9 year old I've ever seen, did I mention adorable?) The court room scenes are so hokey it's almost laughable. The no nonsense black judge, that does nothing but put up with nonsense in her courtroom. The crack head son in law, I mean c'mon, it's like they don't even try anymore. It was truly an uninspiring time waster.

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SnoopyStyle

Elliot Anderson (Kevin Costner) loses his wife Carol in a car accident. He's left along to take care of his bi-racial granddaughter Eloise. He is drinking too much. He hires Duvan Araga as a tutor. There is tension between Eloise's grandmother Rowena Jeffers (Octavia Spencer) and Elliot which explodes when Rowena takes Elliot to court. Her brother Jeremiah Jeffers (Anthony Mackie) is a partner in his law firm. He insists that the case should be based on Elliot hating black people. Elliot's animosity centers on drug-addicted Reggie Jr. who refused to allow Elliot and Carol to come to the birth resulting in Elliot's daughter's death.I am good with the central court case with racial overtones. However the movie seems intent on making everybody with their own cartoon problems. The constant drinking by Elliot borders on silly. He's drinking in almost every scene where he could stand still or sit down. It's ridiculous. When Fay starts clapping in court, I just about gave up on the movie. Rowena having a stare down with the judge is subtle by comparison. Octavia Spencer does give a terrific performance. When the movie tries to treat the material with sincerity and care, it's actually very touching. The interconnection between Rowena and Elliot is compelling. The Jeffers family drama is also compelling. There is a great opportunity here but there are a lot little moments that come off badly especially the little weak attempts at humor.

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