"The Least Among You" (DVD Movie Review)

Leaders are not chosen, they are called. Inspired by a true story.

Arrested in the 1965 Watts riots, Richard Kelly (Cedric Sanders) must serve probation at an all-white seminary. Although encouraged to break racial boundaries by its president Alan Beckett (William Devane), the school wants black followers not leaders. Even former missionary, Kate Allison (Lauren Holly), initially rejects Richard. A prison sentence looming, Richard meets Samuel Benton (Louis Gossett, Jr.) -- “the gardener in the basement.” As Samuel guides Richard through his many trials, Richard must choose between his dreams and his destiny.

My family tends to watch more comedies than dramas.  But when I read the synopsis of "The Least Among You," I wanted to watch it.  During the week before Christmas, we watched it as a family.

The set-up that brings Richard to the seminary is quick.  After that, we see the many obstacles that he faces as well as the support he receives from Samuel.  As Richard meets challenge after challenge, layers of deception and disloyalty are uncovered.  In the end, this is a story of redemption and of doing the right thing, even in the face of adversity.

I found the story compelling; the rest of my family had reactions from "Good, not great" to "Do I have to watch this?"  My only caveat would be this:  because of the theme and some violence, I wouldn't recommend this for younger children.  I encouraged my 13-year-old to watch it, but I don't think I'd show it to younger children.

Links:

• Lionsgate Product page for "The Least Among You"
• Amazon product page for "The Least Among You" (not an affiliate link)
• Amazon product page for "The Least Among You" (my affiliate link - see Disclosure)

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”  This post contains an affiliate link, which is clearly identified.  If you click through my Amazon.com link and complete a purchase, I will receive a small commission.  Thank you for supporting my blog!