Cast
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Carl Lumbly
as Nat Turner - Gray
Justin Dray
as Thomas Gray
Megan Gallagher
as Margaret Whitehead
Charles Burnett
as Lucinda
Ossie Davis
as Himself
Frank Faucette
as Jesse
Henry Louis Gates, Jr.
as Self
Harry Kollatz Jr.
as Benjamin Phipps
Alfre Woodard
as Narrator
Herbert Aptheker
as Self
William Styron
as Self
Raymond H. Johnson
as Virginia Militiaman reenactment
Alvin F. Poussaint
as Self
Shaun DePriest
as Moses
Kimberly Grey
as Sally Travers
Crew
Director
- Charles Burnett
Writer
- Charles Burnett
- Frank Christopher
- Kenneth S. Greenberg
Producer
- Frank Christopher
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Nat Turner: A Troublesome Property represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Charles Burnett brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2003, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Nat Turner: A Troublesome Property took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 58 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 116 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 294 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Nat Turner: A Troublesome Property shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Grenada: Confronting the Past, which focuses more on action than character development, Nat Turner: A Troublesome Property subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The 50 Year Argument and A Place of Our Own explore similar territory, Nat Turner: A Troublesome Property stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 16, 2003
- Runtime: 58m
