The true story of one of only two U.S. Navy ships that saw combat in World War II with African-American crews.The true story of one of only two U.S. Navy ships that saw combat in World War II with African-American crews.The true story of one of only two U.S. Navy ships that saw combat in World War II with African-American crews.
- Awards
- 1 nomination total
Erik LaRay Harvey
- Kevin
- (as Eric LaRay Harvey)
- …
- Director
- Writer
- All cast & crew
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Featured reviews
The movie itself was nothing to crow abut. The acting was not anything noteworthy, but the story is one that needs to be told and so this movie should probably be shown in every US History class in our schools.
Segregation is a part of our culture and a part of our military. President Lincoln may have freed the slaves, but it was until President Johnson that African Americans were truly made equal.
I knew that there were all black units with white officers in the military, but was not aware of a ship composed of African American, nor of their history. The fact that this movie was made serves the cause of equality and was good for that.
Segregation is a part of our culture and a part of our military. President Lincoln may have freed the slaves, but it was until President Johnson that African Americans were truly made equal.
I knew that there were all black units with white officers in the military, but was not aware of a ship composed of African American, nor of their history. The fact that this movie was made serves the cause of equality and was good for that.
I enjoyed the movie. Despite the low budget and a foreigner that said he did not know there was discrimination in the American military this film is worth watching. A proper last film for Ossie Davis. With all the violent shoot em up movies out, this should be seen by young people alike. With the exception of Mr Davis and veteran actress Denise Nicholas the group of newcomers performed great. Shooting on location in Ireland added a touch that gave you the impression that you were actually there. Add to that actual footage of the ceremony honoring the crew of the USS Mason for their service to the country. May someone continue to produce these stories without worry of not being Oscar material. Bravo.
Sadly, one of the Great Ossie Davis' last films. Proud enlightened the viewers of the group of many people of that era that cast a blow to the downfall of segregation within the United States. Showing that we all are citizens, no matter what the color. I only have heard of the hardships endured of many Black Americans within the military. Now I was able to view first hand through this informative film. It is a film that I would recommend history classes to see the accomplishments that have been made throughout the growth of the United States. This film has brought to life the forgotten and shameful history of the USA. Many youth of today a blind to America's history and embarrassing past. Enjoy the Movie, Juan (Elmira, NY)
This is an independent feature telling the story of average men, caught performing heroic acts in a time of war. These men served their country, performed numerous duties to help a convoy succeed in its mission to bring supplies to England. Men had died during this trip across the Atlantic, not to mention getting caught in one of the worst storms in this century, dubbed "the storm of the century during wartime".
These men were supposed to have received commendations for their numerous acts of bravery. The Commander of the convoy, Alfred Lind, wrote those recommendations (ultimately found in naval archives), but they were never given. Why? This was the only ship in the Navy that had black sailors serving on it, which was sent into combat during World War II (the other 11,000 black sailors served in menial jobs). Those same men that served their country couldn't even buy a hot dog on the pier.
Those recommendations were written because the men deserved them. They were never awarded because it was during a time when the color of a their skin somehow disqualified them.
Our society still has a way to go. Hopefully this story helps pave the way for future generations to achieve color blindness.
These men were supposed to have received commendations for their numerous acts of bravery. The Commander of the convoy, Alfred Lind, wrote those recommendations (ultimately found in naval archives), but they were never given. Why? This was the only ship in the Navy that had black sailors serving on it, which was sent into combat during World War II (the other 11,000 black sailors served in menial jobs). Those same men that served their country couldn't even buy a hot dog on the pier.
Those recommendations were written because the men deserved them. They were never awarded because it was during a time when the color of a their skin somehow disqualified them.
Our society still has a way to go. Hopefully this story helps pave the way for future generations to achieve color blindness.
This movie had good intentions and a good story to work with. The director and screenwriter of this movie failed miserably and created a dull, boring filmstrip that made me feel like I was back in Mr. Hartford's 8th grade Social Studies class -- way back in 67.
What a waste, will somebody please take this story and make a real movie out of it - the story deserves it.
Every time a scene had potential, all we were left with were a few clichés, combined with black and white footage that they probably got from The History Channel to show the action. Shameful.
Ossie Davis was the only bright light in this dull fest. The other acting was incredibly dull - it fit in with the movie well and whomever played the Captain set a new low standard for line delivery.
However, if you are willing to accept all the numerous flaws in this movie and aren't concerned with being awed or entertained, but want to learn about the USS Mason, it is worth a watch.
What a waste, will somebody please take this story and make a real movie out of it - the story deserves it.
Every time a scene had potential, all we were left with were a few clichés, combined with black and white footage that they probably got from The History Channel to show the action. Shameful.
Ossie Davis was the only bright light in this dull fest. The other acting was incredibly dull - it fit in with the movie well and whomever played the Captain set a new low standard for line delivery.
However, if you are willing to accept all the numerous flaws in this movie and aren't concerned with being awed or entertained, but want to learn about the USS Mason, it is worth a watch.
Did you know
- TriviaOssie Davis' final film
- GoofsThe movie refers to A.W.O.L. (Absent With Out Leave) which is an Army term. The correct term for the Navy is U.A. (Unauthorized Absence).
- ConnectionsReferences The Birth of a Nation (1915)
Details
Box office
- Budget
- $1,000,000 (estimated)
- Runtime
- 1h 27m(87 min)
- Color
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