Watch Sudie and Simpson

Sudie and Simpson is a powerful, poignant drama set in the American South during the 1940s, a time when racial segregation and prejudice were entrenched in society. The film is based on a novel by Southern author Sara Flanigan and delicately explores themes of friendship, innocence, and the confrontation of societal norms against the backdrop of a racially divided community. It stands as a quiet but firm testament to the possibility of understanding and acceptance in a world rife with ignorance and intolerance.

The movie follows Sudie Harrigan, a fiercely independent and curious 11-year-old white girl portrayed by Sara Gilbert, known for her role as Darlene Conner on the popular television series "Roseanne." Sudie is depicted as a character with a free spirit, one who does not conform to the established racial attitudes of her time. Her views are in stark contrast with the conservative, often bigoted, perspectives of her small Georgia town.

Louis Gossett Jr. delivers a compelling performance as Simpson, an African American man shrouded in mystery who moves to Sudie's town. Distinguished by a gentleness and intelligence that quickly endears him to Sudie, Simpson's character is the embodiment of dignity and wisdom in a world where he is judged and ostracized because of his skin color. Gossett Jr.'s portrayal of Simpson communicates deep emotional resonance and a profound strength of character, helping to anchor the film's central narrative with a powerful gravitas.

John M. Jackson takes on the role of the principled local sheriff who contends with the prejudices of his community while trying to maintain justice and order. His character represents the law in a time and place where the law often failed to protect the rights and dignity of African American citizens.

At its core, Sudie and Simpson is a story of an unlikely and controversial friendship between a young white girl and an older black man, a relationship considered taboo in the Jim Crow era of the South. The two characters form a bond through their shared love of literature and poetry, and their connection deepens as Sudie becomes more aware of the harsh realities and cruelty wrought by racism. The movie deftly portrays the innocence of Sudie's perspective as she navigates her growing sense of right and wrong in the face of her community's historic and systemic racial injustices.

The narrative unfolds with Sudie's eagerness to learn about Simpson's world, challenging her upbringing and the racist status quo all around her. As she questions the arbitrary nature of segregation and discrimination, she becomes an emblem for the transformational power of human relationships and open-mindedness. Simpson, in turn, is cautious yet open to the warmth that Sudie offers, recognizing in her the possibility of change for the future generations.

The film does not shy away from tackling the complexity and danger of the situation. The friendship between Sudie and Simpson becomes a point of contention within the town, sparking controversy and escalating tension that threatens the safety and well-being of Simpson, who is vulnerable to the violent whims of prejudiced townspeople. Moreover, the movie illustrates the challenges faced by individuals like the county sheriff, who must reconcile personal ethics and professional duty with public sentiment and the prevailing discriminatory laws.

Directed by Joan Tewkesbury, Sudie and Simpson benefits significantly from her sensitive direction, which allows the emotional weight of the story to unfold naturally. Tewkesbury guides the film with a steady hand, balancing the darker aspects of the story with moments of genuine warmth and tenderness between the lead characters.

Visually, the film captures the look and feel of the era with authentic set designs, costumes, and a Southern Gothic atmosphere that envelops viewers in the time and place of the story. The cinematography skillfully reflects both the beauty of the landscape and the ugliness of the prejudices that mar it. The musical score further underpins the emotional narrative, emphasizing the seriousness of the themes being depicted without overwhelming the subtle performances of the actors.

A significant contribution to the lexicon of films that address the American civil rights struggle, Sudie and Simpson aims to provoke thought and conversation regarding the historic and ongoing challenges of racial discrimination. It is a finely acted, well-crafted piece of cinema that serves as a reminder of the individual stories and friendships that can spark a broader change. By focusing on the burgeoning understanding and connection between two very different yet kindred spirits, the film declares a call for empathy and equality in an era—and for audiences—that sorely needs it.

Sudie and Simpson is a 1990 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.