03/04/2023
Film History is just as important as todays movies. Have you seen this film?
"Go Tell It on the Mountain" (1985) is a made-for-television drama based on the 1953 semi-autobiographical novel by James Baldwin. The film aired on PBS as part of the American Playhouse series featuring several literary adaptations. Stan Lathan is responsible for the movie, and Gus Edwards and Leslie Lee wrote the screenplay. The film has an excellent cast of actors and actresses that does a superb job of bringing Baldwin's novel to life.
James Baldwin is an acclaimed writer and Civil Rights activist. Yet, people today are still bringing much of his work to newer generations unfamiliar with him as a pioneer of human sovereignty. Baldwin's first novel, "Go Tell It on the Mountain," has three parts, but the film can only capture pieces of each. Paul Winfield stars as Gabriel Grimes, the self-righteous preacher man that is suffering from his judgments in the past. John Grimes, played by James Bond III, is his bright but illegitimate son who struggles between brilliance and his close-minded world. His father puts a stranglehold on his potential as John continuously searches for his approval. In addition, Rosalind Cash stars as Grabriel's sister, and Olivia Cole is his wife. Both actresses were phenomenal in their portrayals.
Like the novel, half of the film is flashbacks about Gabriel's tragic life. These flashbacks introduce additional characters played by Ving Rhames, Ruby Dee, Alfred Woodard, CCH Pounder, Joy A. Aaron, and Kadeem Hardison. When not in the flashbacks, Bond's character is accompanied by his brother, played by Rodrick F. Wimberly, and his cousin, played by Giancarlo Esposito. Esposito earned several minor roles in films before 1985, but "Go Tell It on the Mountain" was his first film where he maintained significant parts. His brilliance as an actor was on full display in this movie.
The film has a strong religious tone. Therefore, a couple of scenes in the church are substantial to the story. These scenes feature the award-winning gospel and blues singer Linda Hopkins and vocalist Desiree Coleman accompanying her. Also, Douglas Turner Ward, American playwriter and one of the founders of the Negro Ensemble Company, plays a reverend in the movie.
Every player in this movie treated Baldwin's novel with love and care. They all brought their talents where it counted, and Stan Lathan delivered his magical touch to each scene. "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is an outstanding piece of Black filmmaking to the highest order. However, there is much more about Baldwin's life and the actors involved in this movie that is open to research. Baldwin was an incredible individual that needed more acknowledgment of his achievements. He has a fascinating life story, especially considering he was an openly gay man during the peak of the Civil Rights Movement. In addition, his experience living in Paris and America allowed him to be critical of humanity on multiple fronts. I highly recommend this movie for viewing for its novelty as a fine drama and the brilliant storytelling of James Baldwin.
Director: Stan Lathan
Writers: James Baldwin (adapted from the novel by), Gus Edwards, Leslie Lee
Starring Paul Winfield, James Bond III, Olivia Cole, Rodrick F. Wimberly, Rosalind Cash, Giancarlo Esposito, Ruby Dee, Ving Rhames, CCH Pounder, Alfre Woodard, Linda Hopkins, Desiree Coleman, Douglas Turner Ward, Joy A. Aaron, Kadeem Hardison, Rose Weaver
Storyline
This film adaptation of James Baldwin's celebrated novel tells a family's journey from the rural South to "big city" Harlem, seeking salvation and understanding, and of a young boy struggling to earn the approval of a self-righteous and often unloving stepfather.
https://www.daarac.ngo
https://www.daaracarchive.org/2017/05/go-tell-it-on-mountain-1984.html
Available DVD (out-of-print) and streaming services.
https://www.amazon.com/Go-Tell-Mountain-Paul-Winfield/dp/B0000YEEL2
