The Butler
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5.9 IMDB Rating 2,993 Views

The Butler

When the phone rings, it could be your job on the line.

Details

In The Butler (2013), Director Lee Daniels brings the inspiring story of Cecil Gaines, a White House butler who served under 8 different presidents across three decades. Loosely based on real-life Eugene Allen, Gaines (played by Forest Whitaker) experiences firsthand the transformation of American society and the civil rights movement. The film exposes the racial injustices faced by African-Americans during this period, skillfully intertwining historical events with Gaines' personal journey.

Through flashbacks, we witness Gaines' difficult childhood as a sharecropper's son and his eventual escape to become a hotel butler. His unwavering dedication to his job puts immense strain on his personal life, as his wife (played by Oprah Winfrey) and two sons struggle with their own battles for equality and justice.

The Butler features an impressive ensemble cast including Robin Williams, John Cusack, and Jane Fonda, who portray various famous political figures. The film effectively captures the contrasting attitudes of the presidents Gaines served, ranging from John F. Kennedy's compassion to Richard Nixon's insensitivity. This historical drama ultimately aims to showcase the resilience and strength of African-Americans in overcoming adversity and fighting for their rights.

With its powerful performances and thought-provoking narrative, The Butler provides an emotional and educational viewing experience. This film delicately handles sensitive topics while shedding light on the turbulent history of the civil rights movement in the United States.