Bright Road

I've spent almost all of my adult life in a classroom. I've never taught a cooperative class like the one in this class. So any kid like CT would just be the norm in modern classrooms. I mean well behaved, well groomed and well mannered. If he was a problem, I fail it see what it would be. That's the cynic in me. The modern practice is horrifying. Under performance is the least of our troubles. Students who are quiet and don't work are either ignored or passed on. The schools have such severe deviants that just controlling a class can be a major problem. What used to be characteristic of Grade 9 is now in grades 4 and 5. Sex drugs and alcohol - especially that latter two - have all moved. What makes this movie so enjoyable is Dorothy Dandridge. She has such a lovely persona that one could enjoy her reading a phone book. She is clever, simple and religious. Nice combination.

Dorothy Dandridge downplays her gorgeousness as a determined young schoolteacher in the South who tries to help a struggling student; Harry Belafonte, in his film debut, plays the school principal who encourages her sincere feelings and enthusiasm (he also sings a little with his guitar). Based on Mary Elizabeth Vroman's short story, "Bright Road" is a sweet and well-meaning family film, but hardly deep or profound. It's also somewhat Anglo-ized; with 95% of the cast black, the picture surprisingly pays very little attention to race (it's the opposite of stereotyping, the scenario has been scrubbed clean). Director Gerald Mayer's tone is dreamy (some might say muted), but the kids are engaging and Dandridge exceptional. Cinematographer Alfred Gilks gets a fresh, homespun look for the picture. A minor effort that might have stood some dramatic tension, though it stays in one's memory. **1/2 from ****

This movie ranks high on my list of memorable, worthwhile movies. It tugged on my heart strings as a child, and although I haven't seen this movie in 30 years or so, I still become emotional just thinking about it. I can still remember the characters names, and find that pretty ironic since I can see a current release today, and can't remember character names next week.

I really enjoyed this movie. It included a few well known stars as Dorothy Dandridge, Harry Belafonte and also Stymie Beards little brother Rene. Well put together for the time. Positive movie for the whole family.

I really enjoyed seeing this "Gem" of a movie the characters were okay but Dandridge was out of sight as a prim and proper teacher. as a former educator, I loved to see her concern for young C.T. and her going beyond the call of duty for poor Tanya. It was a tear-jerker and an inspirational film. Being a minister, I also liked the Sunday School scene and the quips by the P.K.(preacher's Kid)...Lil' Miss Know it all!! I have one just like that Ha Ha Ha!!!Middle kid. Boyd and Lloyd were a scream!!! Belafonte wasn't realistic. But I will give him props this being His debut film. I felt that I wanted to see a sequel what ever happened to C.T. and his eight brothers and sisters? Did he ever get over Tanya? this film was good for its time. Check this one out.