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Sounder, released in 1972, is a heartwarming and poignant drama film about an African-American family in Louisiana in the 1930s. The film is directed by Martin Ritt and stars Cicely Tyson and Paul Winfield as mother and father to a young boy named David Lee, played by Kevin Hooks. The movie follows the struggles of the Morgan family, who are sharecroppers and live in abject poverty. Despite their struggles, the family is incredibly close-knit and supportive of each other. David Lee is especially close to his father, Nathan, who he accompanies on hunting trips in the woods with their trusty dog, Sounder.

One day, Nathan is caught stealing food to feed his family and is arrested and sent to a prison labor camp. The family is torn apart by his absence, and David Lee sets out to find his father, with the help of Sounder.

Throughout the movie, there is a constant struggle to maintain dignity and hope in the face of crushing adversity. The Morgan family faces discrimination and racism at every turn, and their dire financial situation only exacerbates their difficulties.

Despite the bleak conditions, the family is never portrayed as beaten or defeated. Instead, they fiercely hold onto their dreams of a better life, and David Lee is determined to find a way to bring his father back home.

The performances in Sounder are what truly make this movie special. Cicely Tyson gives an especially powerful and nuanced performance as Rebecca, the resilient mother who holds the family together in the face of unfathomable hardship. Her portrayal of a black woman navigating the complexities of the Jim Crow South is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Paul Winfield is equally impressive as Nathan, a loving father and husband who is forced to be separated from his family. He conveys his character's inner turmoil and strength with equal finesse.

Kevin Hooks also stands out as David Lee, whose determination and courage serve as a beacon of hope throughout the story. His chemistry with Sounder, the loyal and brave dog who serves as a constant companion, is a highlight of the film.

Sounder is a truly timeless movie that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. It is a powerful portrayal of the human spirit and the unrelenting need for hope in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Sounder is a 1972 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5 and a MetaScore of 80.