Son of the South 2021
In Montgomery, Alabama, a young man embarks on a transformative journey that challenges racial inequality. As the grandson of a Klansman, he grapples with his family’s history and faces a crucial decision: to conform or to stand for what’s right. Drawing inspiration from Bob Zellner’s autobiography, the film portrays a man’s fight to challenge the existing social order and contribute to meaningful change during the Civil Rights era. It’s a story of courage and the power of individual action in the face of injustice.
Does Son of the South have end credit scenes?
No!
Son of the South does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.
Meet the Full Cast and Actors of Son of the South
Explore the complete cast of Son of the South, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.
Shamier Anderson
Ludi Lin
Brian Dennehy
J.O. Zellner
Cedric the Entertainer
Lex Scott Davis
Lucy Hale
Carol Ann
Lucas Till
Bob Zellner
Michael Sirow
Jay-Jay
Sienna Guillory
Jim Klock
Younger
Julia Ormond
Virginia Durr
Jake Abel
Doc
Cian Genaro
John Hill
Mike C. Manning
Nicole Ansari-Cox
Professor Kleiner
Sharonne Lanier
Rosa Parks
External Links and Streaming Options
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Ratings and Reviews for Son of the South
See how Son of the South is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Son of the South stands among top-rated movies in its genre.
The Movie Echo Score
Son of the South earns a modest score for its earnest subject matter balanced against formulaic execution. Critical opinions recognize its sincere portrayal of civil rights history and commend the lead actor’s nuanced performance, but they also point to heavy-handed direction and an overly familiar biopic structure. Viewers echo appreciation for the film’s topical relevance and competent production, while noting uneven pacing and occasional narrative lapses. Overall, this drama delivers a thoughtful message but falls short of lasting distinction.
The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for Son of the South
Art & Craft
In terms of art and craft, the film offers competent period design and convincing locations alongside measured editing. Critics note some ham-fisted direction and uninspired visual flourishes, and users describe the cinematography and music as serviceable but unremarkable. Though the production design effectively evokes the era, the overall execution remains formulaic and lacks distinctive flair.
Character & Emotion
When it comes to character and emotion, the lead performance is widely regarded as the film’s strongest element, delivering a nuanced portrayal of personal growth. Supporting roles provide adequate chemistry, though character depth varies across the ensemble. While emotional resonance is achieved in key moments, some figures remain underdeveloped, resulting in a moderately engaging but uneven character canvas.
Story & Flow
In terms of story and flow, the narrative follows a familiar biopic arc with straightforward plotting. Reviews highlight the film’s earnest intentions and clear moral focus, yet many point out its predictable structure, occasional pacing inconsistencies, and lack of originality. As a result, the plot engages intermittently but does not offer fresh insights or compelling twists.
Sensory Experience
When it comes to the sensory experience, the soundtrack and sound design provide adequate period atmosphere without drawing attention to themselves. Visual style remains consistent, reflecting an understated color palette that suits the historical setting. However, reviewers frequently describe the audio-visual elements as serviceable rather than inspired, contributing to an overall sensory impression that is pleasant but forgettable.
Rewatch Factor
In terms of rewatch factor, the film’s thematic importance and lead performance may hold initial appeal, but its formulaic approach limits long-term engagement. Critics and viewers alike report that the story, while inspiring, lacks memorable sequences that invite repeated viewings. Consequently, the movie delivers a respectable first experience but offers limited incentive for revisiting.
60
Metascore
4.5
User Score
59%
TOMATOMETER
89%
User Score
6.2 /10
IMDb Rating
65
%
User Score
2.7
From 1 fan rating
5.00/5
From 2 fan ratings
Take the Ultimate Son of the South Movie Quiz
Challenge your knowledge of Son of the South with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.
Son of the South Quiz: Test your knowledge about the Civil Rights Movement with this quiz based on the movie 'Son of the South'.
Where does Bob Zellner attend college?
Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for Son of the South
Read the complete plot summary of Son of the South, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.
The story begins on April 5, 1961, when we meet Bob Zellner (/actor/lucas-till), a senior at the all-White Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama. As the son of a Methodist minister, Zellner’s curiosity about race relations grows, leading him to team up with four fellow students on an enlightening expedition to delve into this intricate issue. Their journey brings them to a Baptist Black church, where they participate in a gathering commemorating the fifth anniversary of the Montgomery bus boycott (1955-1956), orchestrated by influential civil rights leaders like Ralph Abernathy and Rosa Parks.
As the evening progresses, law enforcement arrives to apprehend those gathered, but Zellner and his friends evade capture by swiftly exiting through a back door. This experience leaves a lasting impression on Zellner, earning them the moniker “Huntingdon Five” in local media. Shortly after, a haunting reminder of intolerance appears on the lawn outside Zellner’s residence — a cross burned by the Ku Klux Klan.
A pivotal moment occurs on May 19, 1961, when Zellner witnesses an assault on the Freedom Riders. He immediately jumps into action to aid Jessica Mitford during a crucial moment. Starting off as a passive advocate for civil rights, Zellner’s involvement intensifies as he becomes the first White field secretary for the SNCC. Initially greeted with skepticism from some Black activists, he knows he must demonstrate his true dedication and commitment to the cause.
On a fateful night in McComb, Mississippi, on October 30, 1961, Zellner experiences a traumatic event during a march to the county courthouse, narrowly escaping a lynching by local white southerners. This terrifying ordeal shakes him to his very core. Following the murder of Herbert Lee, Zellner is prompted to reflect on his role in the civil rights movement. A violent confrontation with a former associate who had been involved in the attempted lynching serves as a wake-up call for him. Zellner’s resolve strengthens, and he recommits himself to advocating for civil rights.
The film concludes with a moving montage showcasing Zellner’s activist efforts throughout the 1960s, paying homage to his mentor, the late John Lewis, who significantly influenced his path.
Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Son of the South
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Cars Featured in Son of the South
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Son of the South Themes and Keywords
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Son of the South Other Names and Titles
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