Get on the Bus 1996

Twelve African American men, united only by their race and a shared destination, embark on a journey aboard a Spotted Owl Bus from Los Angeles to the Million Man March in Washington D.C. These men, each with unique backgrounds and stories, represent a cross-section of experiences:

• George (Charles S. Dutton) serves as the trip’s organizer.

• Jeremiah aka “Pop” (Ossie Davis), an 80-year-old who has seen better days, brings a wealth of African-American history to the group.

• Evan and Evan Jr. aka “Smooth” (Thomas Jefferson Byrd and De’Aundre Bonds), are a father-son duo shackled together due to Junior’s petty theft.

• Kyle and Randall (Harry Lennix and a character portrayed by Isaiah Washington), are a gay couple grappling with their relationship.

• Flip ([Andre Braugher]), a narcissistic and racist actor, adds tension to the mix.

• Gary ([Hill Harper]), a biracial LAPD officer, struggles with his identity.

• Xavier ([Gabriel Casseus]), a UCLA Film School student, documents the journey with his camcorder.

• Jamal ([Gabriel Casseus]), a former gangster turned Muslim, is seeking redemption.

• Jay and Mike (portrayed by Bernie Mac and Steve White, respectively) bring humor and conspiracy theories into the conversation.

• Lastly, Craig ([Albert Hall]), the bus driver contends with his own family issues.

As the journey progresses, the men begin to open up, discussing their personal lives, contrasting political beliefs, and the sensational O.J. Simpson case. In a rare moment of camaraderie, they even unite in a belief about Simpson’s acquittal, viewing it as retribution for historical racial injustices in America.

The elderly Jeremiah, affectionately dubbed “Pop,” shares his painful journey through alcoholism after losing his job, hoping the March will provide him rejuvenation. Meanwhile, Evan Jr. navigates his aspirations of becoming a gangster rap artist and actively seeks his father’s attention after feeling neglected.

As Xavier, or “X,” captures interviews with his fellow passengers, he unveils their stories, although he often faces ridicule from the group. Tensions boil over when Flip reveals his prejudices, particularly targeting** Kyle** and Randall, leading to a spectacular confrontation that culminates in a fistfight that leaves Flip humiliated.

The journey is punctuated by challenges, including a bus breakdown and a new driver, Rick ([Richard Belzer]), who vocally opposes racist statements made by Louis Farrakhan, inciting more heated discussions among the men. As they stop at various rest areas, they interact with different travelers, experiencing kindness and prejudice alike, ultimately leading to a significant confrontation with Tennessee state troopers over unfounded suspicions.

Tragedy strikes when Jeremiah collapses and is rushed to the hospital, where they learn of his passing due to heart disease. The group’s collective grief fosters a strong bond among them—now, united in a shared experience of loss. They watch the remainder of the March unfold on television, finding solace in the idea that their journey, despite never reaching its intended destination, signifies the inception of a much larger movement.

In a poignant final scene at the Lincoln Memorial, George leads the men in a heartfelt prayer that Jeremiah had penned before his death, solidifying their connection and purpose on this life-altering journey.