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Carbon Copy is a comedic drama film released in 1981, directed by Michael Schultz and written by Stanley Shapiro. Starring George Segal, Susan Saint James, and Jack Warden, the film follows the story of a wealthy white businessman named Walter Whitney (Segal) who discovers he has a black son named Roger (Denzel Washington). Initially shocked by this revelation, Walter is forced to confront his own prejudices and learn to accept Roger into his family and society as a whole.

The film begins by introducing us to Walter Whitney, a seemingly successful businessman who enjoys a luxurious life with his neurotic wife (Saint James), and two spoiled children in their luxurious mansion in the suburbs. Walter's life changes abruptly when he receives a phone call from a woman named Vivian (Dickens), claiming to be his former housekeeper. She tells Walter that he has a son named Roger, a young black man who is now in trouble with the law and needs his father's help.

Initially, Walter is deeply shocked by this information and dismisses it as a joke. However, when he meets Roger for the first time, he realizes that he is indeed his son. This revelation shakes Walter to his core, and he is forced to confront his own prejudices and preconceptions about race and class.

As Walter starts to connect with his newfound son Roger, he is introduced to a completely different world. He accompanies Roger to his family's modest home in a predominantly black neighborhood and is introduced to Roger's grandfather (Warden) and other members of the community. Walter soon realizes how different his son's life has been compared to his, and the struggles he has had to overcome just because of the color of his skin.

However, the road to acceptance is not easy for Walter. As he starts to embrace his son's race, he begins to lose his own identity and struggles to identify with those around him. He faces ridicule, rejection, and even outright hostility from his own family, friends, and colleagues. Walter must fight against the prejudices of society to ensure that his son has the same opportunities that he has had, despite the color of his skin.

Carbon Copy is a heartwarming and thought-provoking film that tackles relevant themes such as racial equality, class conflicts, and social justice. The cast, led by the charismatic George Segal and the up-and-coming Denzel Washington, deliver some powerful performances that add depth and complexity to the characters. Susan Saint James also shines as Walter's neurotic wife, providing some humorous moments that balance out the heavier themes of the film.

The film's direction by Michael Schultz is well done, capturing the nuances of both the black and white communities and the conflicts that arise between them. The soundtrack fits the mood of the story and includes some classic soul and R&B tracks that enhance the nostalgia of the film.

Overall, Carbon Copy is an entertaining and thought-provoking movie that still holds relevance in today's society. It's a story of redemption, love, and acceptance, and is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring themes of race, class, and social justice.

Carbon Copy is a 1981 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.