Solomon Northup's Odyssey 1991
Gordon Parks' gripping 1991 TV drama *Solomon Northup's Odyssey* brings to life one of history's most harrowing true stories of injustice.
Director: Gordon Parks
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Solomon Northup's Odyssey (1991) about?
This powerful drama follows Solomon Northup, a free Black man in the 1840s who is tricked, drugged, and sold into slavery. His fight to survive and reunite with his family exposes the brutal reality of antebellum America. The film is a raw, humanizing account of one of history's darkest chapters.
Who directed Solomon Northup's Odyssey?
The film was directed by Gordon Parks, a pioneering filmmaker and photographer known for his unflinching portrayals of racial injustice.
Who stars in Solomon Northup's Odyssey?
Avery Brooks leads the cast as Solomon Northup, joined by Rhetta Greene, Mason Adams, and Kent Broadhurst in pivotal roles.
Is Solomon Northup's Odyssey (1991) worth watching?
While unrated on IMDb, this TV movie is a compelling watch for fans of historical dramas and true stories. Parks' direction and Brooks' performance elevate the material, offering both emotional weight and educational value. It's a film that lingers long after the credits roll.
How long is Solomon Northup's Odyssey?
The film runs 117 minutes, delivering a tight yet impactful narrative experience.
🎥 Trailer
About Solomon Northup's Odyssey (1991) — Gordon Parks' searing true-story adaptation
Gordon Parks' gripping 1991 TV drama *Solomon Northup's Odyssey* brings to life one of history's most harrowing true stories of injustice. Based on Northup's 1853 memoir, the film follows his journey from a free Black man in 19th-century New York—skilled as a carpenter and musician—to being drugged, kidnapped, and sold into brutal slavery. Avery Brooks delivers a powerhouse performance as Northup, navigating the dehumanizing cruelty of the antebellum South while clinging to hope and identity. The atmosphere is suffocating yet deeply human, contrasting Northup's earlier life of dignity with the relentless violence of bondage.
Parks, a legend in his own right, crafts a stark yet moving portrait of resilience, blending historical authenticity with emotional depth. The film doesn't shy away from the ugliness of slavery but anchors its story in Northup's humanity, making his struggle feel both epic and intimate. Rhetta Greene and Mason Adams round out the standout cast, grounding the narrative in moments of quiet defiance and sorrow.