CRY THE BELOVED COUNTRY

In CRY, THE BELOVED COUNTRY, racial tensions reign in South Africa in the 1940’s. Zulu Christian minister, Stephen Kumalo, played by James Earl Jones, is called away to Johannesburg. He is asked to locate a local girl who moved to the city. Kumalo arrives in the city, only to learn that his sister has turned to prostitution and now has an illegitimate son. Kumalo forgives her, but he looks also for his brother, John, and his son, Absalom. He finds John has walked away from the church and is a prominent organizer in protests against whites. Kumalo learns that Absalom has been arrested for the murder of Arthur Jarvis, a white reformer. The murder trial has commenced, and Kumalo, a man of deep compassion for others, has to face the most difficult trial of his life.

There are few films today which touch the heart and turn the viewer to tears. This is such a film. Although slow paced, it still grips the emotions. This film will convict some men of the injustices they throw at each other. Perhaps, those watching will be moved to listen and learn from Kumalo consistent Christ-like example. Just like the good shepherd who collects his sheep into the fold, Kumalo, attempts to reunite his family. Easily transferable into our neighborhoods today, there is much we can learn from the Christian men in this movie.