Black or White (2014)

Black or White Poster

A grieving widower is drawn into a custody battle over his granddaughter, whom he helped raise her entire life.

Introduction & Overview
"Black or White" is a 2014 American drama movie directed and written by Mike Binder. At the center of the movie is a kid custody battle that brings out multilayered racial tensions and predispositions. The film includes noteworthy performances from actors Kevin Costner and Octavia Spencer.

Plot
Kevin Costner plays the role of Elliot Anderson, a wealthy legal representative, who, after his better half's unexpected death, finds himself entirely responsible for his biracial granddaughter Eloise (Jillian Estell). Eloise's mom, Elliot's own child, had actually died during giving birth, and her African American dad, Reggie (Andre Holland), is a drug abuser, mainly missing from her life.

As Elliot tries to handle his loss and responsibility, Eloise's paternal grandmother, Rowena "Wee-Wee" Jeffers (Octavia Spencer), a self-made woman who runs her own business, seeks joint custody of the little woman. She declares that Eloise needs to have a connection with her African-American roots, which Elliot can not provide. Nevertheless, Elliot argues that he can provide a more stable home environment than Reggie or Rowena.

More advancements in the narrative see the return of Reggie, who, under Rowena's impact, starts taking interest in Eloise's life. As the custody battle profits, Reggie's drug dependency and criminal past are revisited while Elliot's drinking problem likewise comes under scrutiny.

Important Highlights and Themes
"Black or White" shines a light on the racial predispositions inherent in society and poses difficult questions about what determines an ideal and nurturing home. It explores the complex characteristics of racial tension, addiction, grief, and household. Among the main debates in the film focuses on whether Eloise would be much better off with her white grandpa in a more affluent environment, or if she needs the connection to her black heritage that her father's family can supply.

Conclusion
"Black or White" is a film that does not avoid challenging racial concerns head-on. It forces audiences to consider the effect race has on numerous real-life scenarios, like legal custody battles. The last court fight results in either celebration dropping the case and agreeing to a shared custody plan, establishing a well balanced resolution. Amidst the racial and social pressures, the film eventually advises the audience that everybody has defects, regardless of their race or status. It highly asserts that household extends beyond race and is instead deeply seated in love, understanding, and a desire to do what is best for a kid.

In the end, the audience is made to comprehend that neither 'black' nor 'white' is the answer, but rather an understanding of variety, inclusivity, and shared bonds, thus manifesting the significance of the movie's title, "Black or White."

Top Cast

  • Kevin Costner (small)
    Kevin Costner
    Elliot Anderson
  • Jillian Estell (small)
    Jillian Estell
    Eloise Anderson
  • Jennifer Ehle (small)
    Jennifer Ehle
    Carol
  • Gillian Jacobs (small)
    Gillian Jacobs
    Fay
  • Octavia Spencer (small)
    Octavia Spencer
    Rowena Jeffers
  • Bill Burr (small)
    Bill Burr
    Rick Reynolds
  • Joe Chrest (small)
    Joe Chrest
    Dave
  • Indigo (small)
    Indigo
    Young Nurse
  • Mpho Koaho (small)
    Mpho Koaho
    Duvan
  • Angela Jones
    Rita
  • Anthony Mackie (small)
    Anthony Mackie
    Jeremiah Jeffers