Cousin Bobby 1992
Cousin Bobby (1992) offers an intimate documentary portrait from director Jonathan Demme, exploring themes of faith, family, and social justice through the lens of his cousin Robert W. Castle's journey as an Episcopal pastor.
Director: Jonathan Demme
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cousin Bobby (1992) about?
Cousin Bobby follows Pastor Robert Castle's journey in 1960s Harlem, documenting his work at St. Mary's Episcopal Church during a period of significant social change and civil rights activism. The documentary explores how his faith intersected with the challenges facing his predominantly African-American congregation.
Who directed Cousin Bobby?
The film was directed by Jonathan Demme, who creates an intimate portrait of his cousin Robert Castle's life as a pastor navigating faith and social justice in 1960s New York.
Who stars in Cousin Bobby?
The documentary features Robert W. Castle and Jonathan Demme, with Castle serving as the central figure in this personal family portrait.
Is Cousin Bobby (1992) worth watching?
As an unrated documentary, Cousin Bobby provides valuable insights into American religious life and social history during the civil rights era. Its intimate approach and historical significance make it worthwhile for viewers interested in documentary filmmaking and social justice themes.
How long is Cousin Bobby?
The documentary runs for 70 minutes.
About Cousin Bobby (1992) — Jonathan Demme's Personal Documentary Portrait
Cousin Bobby (1992) offers an intimate documentary portrait from director Jonathan Demme, exploring themes of faith, family, and social justice through the lens of his cousin Robert W. Castle's journey as an Episcopal pastor. The film chronicles Castle's experiences beginning in the early 1960s at St. Mary's Church in Harlem, where he served a changing African-American community during turbulent civil rights era. Demme crafts a deeply personal narrative that weaves together spiritual devotion with the harsh realities of urban life, creating a compelling meditation on moral leadership.
Through candid footage and heartfelt conversations, this 70-minute documentary reveals how one man's commitment to his congregation intersected with broader struggles for equality and community healing. The atmosphere blends reverence with realism, showing both the sacred rituals of pastoral care and the everyday challenges of ministering in a neighborhood marked by violence and social upheaval. Demme's affectionate direction allows viewers to witness intimate discussions about race, faith, and the bonds that connect family across different worlds. This unique documentary stands as both a family tribute and a significant historical document of American religious and social life.