Sounder (1972)

One of the earliest films I can remember loving in my youth (even though I thought it was going to be a movie about a dog) which I watched again recently on TCM. Another masterpiece from director Martin Ritt and an essential drama. Both lead actors Paul Winfield & Cicely Tyson received their only Oscar nominations; the film and screenwriter Lonnie Elder III (also receiving his only Academy recognition) who adapted William Armstrong’s book were also nominated. Winfield & Tyson play sharecroppers and the parents of a boy (Kevin Hooks) who adopts the titled dog. When Winfield is sent to prison for committing a crime the boy makes an unforgettable coming of age journey to see him. James Best plays a sheriff. #61 on AFI’s 100 Most Inspiring Movies list.

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