I’ll Fly Away-The Movie

by Ayesha Haqqiqa

Synopsis: In a series of flashbacks from the present day, the story of how the black maid left the employ of Forrest Bedford is told. At the very end, she goes to visit an elderly Forrest, who tells her what happened to his children.

As a stand-alone movie, this wasn't bad-but compared to the series it was based upon, it was preachy and the plot trite and contrived.

Sam’s performance: I think it is telling that I still remember Sam’s performance after seeing the film back in the early 90’s. I was a fan of the series I’ll Fly Away, and didn't miss an episode on its initial run and when it was repeated on PBS, including this film. Despite the drawbacks of the film, Sam did a wonderful job playing a white Southerner during the Civil Rights period. He was honest and forthright, and strove to teach his children tolerance. I think one thing that best shows how well Sam performed in this role was the fact that Southern friends of mine were convinced (until I told them better) that Sam is from the South!

Must-see scene: The scene where the maid comes to visit Forrest in the present day. Forrest tells her what has happened to his children-and in those few sentences shows his pride at their accomplishments, and a bit of wistfulness that none of them went into law. And there was sadness, too. Sam played an old man who had grown wise.

Rating:

1 Sam means you’ll not be able to sit through the whole movie; 5 Sams means you’ll want to buy the film and watch it over and over!

3 Sams

Like I said, I was an avid watcher of the series, and the film is the capper for the series. It’s nice when you are able to find out what happened to characters after the series shut down. But I rate it only at 3 Sams because the story line and writing aren't as good, and, frankly, Sam's part in the film isn't very big.