Disney's Ruby Bridges

Starring:Chaz Monet, Penelope Ann Miller, Kevin Pollak, Michael Beach, Lela Rochon, Jean Louisa Kelly, Peter Francis James, Diana Scarwid, Patrika Darbo, Frank Aaron, Derin Altay, Ralph Wilcox, Paula Davis, Whitney Tucker, Joan Gibson, Robin Robertson, Joe Maggard, Al Butler, Charlie Lucas, Chuck Kinlaw
Director: Euzhan Palcy
Studio: Walt Disney Home Entertainment
Product Type: DVD

Amazon.com

This well-conceived made-for-television Disney movie brings the pain and difficulty of desegregation to life for a generation of kids to whom the 1960s is ancient history. Young Chaz Monet plays Ruby, who in real life walked up those Southern school steps with armed guards barely shielding her from the hate-filled epithets white adults hurled at her as she single-handedly desegregated the institution. Penelope Ann Miller plays her Yankee teacher--actually a tutor, since no white kids will share her classroom. Kevin Pollak plays the psychiatrist who donates his time to help her deal with the trauma, but won't eat her mother's food. This 89-minute film offers surprisingly complex portraits of many of the adult characters and an admirably frank look at the less-than-positive reaction from her own community. Even her father (Michael Beach) waivers in resolution, especially when his white boss fires him. Superior acting, writing, and production mark this look at one of the uglier periods in American social history and the little girl who helped the country take a giant step in the right direction. Somewhat scary situations and use of racial slurs make parental guidance advisable for young children. (Ages 7 and older) --Kimberly Heinrichs

Description

Disney presents the inspiring true story of one little girl whose strength and dignity during the racially charged 1960s helped change history! When bright six-year-old Ruby is chosen to be the first African-American student to integrate her local New Orleans elementary school, she is subjected to the true ugliness of racism for the very first time. But guided by the love of her mother (Lela Rochon -- WHY DO FOOLS FALL IN LOVE, WAITING TO EXHALE) and father (Michael Beach -- SOUL FOOD, TV's THIRD WATCH), Ruby's heroic struggle for a better education becomes a lesson for us all. An acclaimed and entertaining motion picture also starring Penelope Ann Miller (THE GUN IN BETTY LOU'S HANDBAG, CARLITO'S WAY) and Kevin Pollak (THE USUAL SUSPECTS, A FEW GOOD MEN) -- you'll want to share this remarkable story of courage and pride with your family!

Customer Reviews:

A Great Classroom Tool!.......2007-06-27

I've been teaching for ten years and use Ruby Bridges each year when discussing racial integration and prejudice. I've finally purchased my own copy. This is a moving film that really reaches children and adults alike. Be aware that the "N" word is used on two occasions and the angry mob outside of Ruby's school says terrible things to her. One woman suggests she will poison Ruby and later shows Ruby a small coffin. While that sounds harsh, it is an appropriate movie for 4th grade and up (with guidance). This movie accurately shows the reprecussions for everyone involved in this act of bravery. I would highly recommend it for your home or classroom.

History in video.......2007-06-26

This is an excellent video for sharing history with young children. It is a great teaching tool that can lead to reading about other historical events that involve the lives of young children.

Pleased!.......2007-04-13

Wonderful movie, excellent service.
Thank you very much.
...you're highly recommended by me.
Leroy Guillory Jr.

An amazing child's bravery!!!!.......2006-03-22

This movie is such an important part of our multi-cultural history that must be shared! This brave little girl has a greater faith and more forgiving spirit than can be imagined. She is an example of how God's loves works. This is a movie that I will watch at least 2 or 3 times a year to remind me that no matter the circumstances are, faith and love can overcome anything!

Excellent Choice.......2006-03-21

Great Movie to show ages 8+. Strong topic was presented in a kid friendly format. Its Disney, so all dialogue was appropriate. Movie watchers get the harshness of segregation without the true hatred of segregation.

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