Roscoe Lee Browne Movies
Roscoe Lee Browne was already an internationally famous track star when he attended Vermont's Middlebury College and Columbia University. Browne taught comparative literature and French at Pennsylvania's Lincoln University before turning to acting in 1956. Refusing to limit himself to the subservient roles generally assigned to black actors in the 1950s, Browne established himself in the classics, beginning with his inaugural stage appearance in a New York Shakespeare Festival staging of Julius Caesar. He later appeared in such highly regarded New York theatrical productions as The Blacks and Brecht on Brecht. From his first film appearance in Shirley Clarke's The Connection (1962) onward, Browne projected a commanding, authoritative presence, even when playing "hired help" characters like camp cook Jedediah Nightlinger in The Cowboys (1972). His series-TV credits include the roles of Saunders on Soap (1980-1981 season) and Rosemont on Falcon Crest (1988-1989 season). Having never let a year go by without at least one theatrical engagement, Browne won a Tony award for his work in the 1992 production 2 Trains Running. Outside of his performing activities, Roscoe Lee Browne is an accomplished poet, short-story author, playwright, director, and musical arranger. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 2002
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Among the tasks undertaken by the WPA's Federal Writers' Project in the 1930s was to transcribe the memories of those former African-American slaves who were still living. The result was a massive collection of notes, documents, and recordings, all of which found their way into the Library of Congress. Co-produced by the Library and the HBO cable channel, Unchained Memories: Readings From the Slave Narratives features a truly impressive array of black actors and actresses verbally recreating the reminiscences of those who lived under the yoke of slavery. The performers themselves appeared in modern dress, standing before a neutral background as they read from the transcripts, while directors Ed Bell and Thomas Lennon complemented the words with vivid and disturbing images culled from contemporary photographs of the years 1850-1935. Tied in with a traveling museum exhibit of photos and recordings, Unchained Memories was telecast during Black History Month, 2003. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
Campbell Scott is both star and co-director of this elaborate (albeit economically produced) four-hour TV version of Shakespeare's immortal tragedy Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. The film is based on Scott's earlier theatrical production of the same play, with several of the same actors repeating their same roles. Updated to 1900 New York, the text remains substantially the same as it has always been: Hamlet (Scott), the "melancholy" Danish prince, discovers to his horror that his late father, the King, was murdered by his brother (and Hamlet's uncle) Claudius (Jamey Sheridan), who upon ascending to the throne, added insult to injury by wedding Hamlet's mother, Gertrude (Blair Brown). Though his desire for revenge is strong, Hamlet does not want any more bloodshed, and concocts an elaborate scheme to "catch the conscience" of Claudius and force him into a confession. Part of this scheme involves Hamlet's feigned descent into madness -- which, as interpreted by Scott, may not be as "feigned" as he thinks it is. Caught in the middle of this intrigue is Hamlet's lady love, Ophelia (Lisa Gay Hamilton), daughter of Claudius' chief consul, Polonius (played in the manner of a protocol-conscious Victorian diplomat by Roscoe Lee Browne). Some of the choices made by Scott in adapting Hamlet to the screen -- the turn-of-the-century setting; the utilization of black actors in the roles of Polonius, Ophelia, and Laertes (who is played by Roger Guenveur Smith); the casting of Byron Jennings to play both the Ghost of Hamlet's father and the Player King, who pretends to be the father -- were applauded by the critics. Other innovations, notably the use of slow jazz music throughout the action, and Hamlet's violent treatment of poor Ophelia during the "Get thee to a nunnery" scene, were not so enthusiastically received. Whatever the case, Scott does a remarkable job with a tiny budget and a slim 29-day shooting schedule. In addition to the actors' lilting interpretation of the Shakespearean dialogue and soliloquies, the film boasts a truly exciting climactic duel, shot in long takes without the use of stunt doubles. Initially produced for a theatrical release, this Hamlet made its American debut as a cable TV miniseries on the Odyssey Channel, beginning December 10, 2000. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Campbell Scott, Blair Brown, (more)
- 1999
Carol (Julianna Margulies) tells Greene (Anthony Edwards) that she is pregnant, and offers some encouraging words to schizophrenic new mother Coco (Sheila Kelley). Jeanie (Gloria Reuben) finds her faith renewed as she cares for Rev. Matthew Lynn (Roscoe Lee Browne). Lucy (Kellie Martin) discovers that her young patient has been overmedicated. Carter (Noah Wyle) mentors a teenager named Antoine Bell (Corey Parker Robinson). And Romano (Paul McCrane) forces Benton (Eriq La Salle) into a crucial decision. There are a few light-hearted moments in this episode -- before everything is literally plunged into darkness. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1996
When avaricious land developers threaten the pristine forest playground of local children, a mythical spirit appears to help them. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Chuck Norris, Terry Kiser, (more)
A young pig fights convention to become a sheep dog -- or, rather, sheep pig -- in this charming Australian family film, which became an unexpected international success due to superior special effects and an intelligent script. The title refers to the name bestowed on a piglet soon after his separation from his family, when he finds himself on a strange farm. Confused and sad, Babe is adopted by a friendly dog and slowly adjusts to his new home. Discovering that the fate of most pigs is the dinner table, Babe devotes himself to becoming a useful member of the farm by trying to learn how to herd sheep, despite the skepticism of the other animals and the kindly but conventional Farmer Hoggett (James Cromwell). Because technically impeccable animatronics and computer graphics allow the farm animals to converse easily among themselves, first-time director Chris Noonan can treat the film's menagerie as actual characters, playing scene not for cuteness but for real emotions. The result is often surprisingly touching, with Noonan and George Miller's script, based on Dick King-Smith's children's book and, indirectly, a true story, seamlessly combining gentle whimsy and sincere feeling. These same qualities are embodied by in Cromwell's beautifully understated performance as Farmer Hoggett, which anchors the film. Despite its unlikely premise and low profile, Babe's inspirational story was embraced by audiences and critics, and the movie became an international sleeper that won an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. It was followed in 1999 by the less successful Babe: Pig in the City. ~ Judd Blaise, All Movie Guide
This rental contains both Babe and Babe: Pig in the City
This rental contains both Babe and Babe: Pig in the City
- Starring:
- James Cromwell, Christine Cavanaugh, (more)
- 1994
This documentary is an homage to Marilyn Monroe, arguably the most famous sex-symbol of the 20th century. The film offers a loving examination of her enduring charm and chronicles the continued devotion of her fans. Rather than present the traditional chronological biography, the filmmakers have chosen to focus on key points in Monroe's career and life such as her rise to stardom. In addition to fabulous stills and film clips, the movie includes interviews with Hugh Hefner, who used Monroe's nude pictures as his centerfold in the first issue of Playboy. Also interviewed are columnist Liz Smith, who discusses Hollywood's attitude toward Marilyn. Finally the film chronicles the ways in which Marilyn has become a cultural icon beginning with Andy Warhol's art and continued showings of her films. The industry surrounding her image is also examined. The film does not offer insight as to why Marilyn Monroe continues to be so popular. It is simply a tribute. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Joyce Brothers, David Brown, (more)
- 1993
Eddie Presley (Duane Whitaker is a security guard who, like his lifetime hero, is slightly overweight these days. Formerly, he occasionally worked as an Elvis impersonator. Recently he has had rather a rough time, but his spirits have improved on learning that he will have a chance to revive his impersonation routines for a single evening at a none-too spiffy nightclub. When the club's music equipment chews up his tapes, Eddie doesn't simply leave the stage. Instead, he delivers a monologue about his life and times, how he came to be so devoted to Elvis, and his recent nervous breakdown. This movie was adapted from a play and performance piece by Duane Whitaker. ~ Clarke Fountain, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Duane Whitaker, Roscoe Lee Browne, (more)
- 1992
One of the undisputed masters of Kansas City jazz, William "Count" Basie was among the greatest bandleaders of the swing years, whose group featured such greats as Illinois Jacquet, Quincy Jones, Harry "Sweets" Edison, Joe Williams, Jimmy Rushing, Buddy Tate, and many more during Basie's nearly fifty years as a star. Masters of American Music: Count Basie -- Swingin' the Blues is a documentary which looks at Basie's long and fruitful career, featuring rare performance footage and interviews with a number of musicians who'd worked with the Count; selections include "One O'Clock Jump", "Air Mail Special", "Every Day I Have The Blues", "Jumpin' At The Woodside", and many more. ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide
- 1992
A pregnant Nigerian woman dies while carrying 20 heroin-filled condoms in her stomach. In seeking the person or persons responsible for the woman's grisly demise, the detectives and the attorneys come up with two possibles: engineer Phillip Marietta (Andrew Robinson) and African tribal chieftain Ola-Gimju Nawaka (Wendell Pierce). Featured in the cast is Beverly Johnson, then the girlfriend of series regular Chris Noth. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1992
To improve her grades so that she can keep her engineering scholarship, Lena (Jada Pinkett) writes a florid "biographical" essay, heavily fictionalizing the accomplishments of her father Grover James (Ron Canada). Certain that no one will ever learn the real story, Lena is terror-stricken when dear old Dad shows up to watch her win a journalism award. Meanwhile, Whitley (Jasmine Guy) takes a crash course in politics in hopes of helping Byron (Joe Morton) win the senatorial election. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
A highly principled African-American independent filmmaker hides his early profession because his films never became popular. This Wonderworks drama chronicles what happens when the former filmmaker's niece finds his old films in a trunk and then begins researching her uncle's contributions. She then helps teach him to become proud of his refusal to make films that exploited his actors. The girl also learns the value of working on a team. The video comes with a handy viewer's guide to promote discussion after the film. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide
- 1991
Whitley (Jasmine Guy recommends that E.H. Wright engage the services of the new temp agency run by Jaleesa (Dawnn Wright)--and that, boys and girls, is how Freddie (Cree Summer) ends up working as a secretary. Unfortunately, an argument over Affirmative Action gets Freddie fired, and at the same time casts a very negative light on both Whitley and Jaleesa--and also involves Jaleesa's husband Col. Taylor (Glynn Turman) in the brouhaha. Elsewhere, Terrence (Cory Tyler) and Lena (Jada Pinkett) try to make sense of Shakespeare. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1991
Photographer, author, scriptwriter, and director, Gordon Parks' visions are captured in this video. ~ All Movie Guide
- 1990
This was one of the highest-rated of the Columbo 2-hour TV movies of the 1990s. The story begins as Lt. Columbo (Peter Falk) solemnly attends his wife's funeral. Mrs. C. was poisoned, and the murderer is guest star Helen Shaver. When her husband died in prison, Shaver swore revenge on the three men responsible for his incarceration. She kills the first two men outright, but when she levels her sights at Columbo, Shaver decides to make the detective "feel her pain" through the loss of a loved one. A twist ending caps this intriguing entry. Rest in Peace, Mrs. Columbo was first presented March 31, 1990, as part of ABC's Saturday Mystery Movie anthology. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Peter Falk, Helen Shaver, (more)
- 1989
The made for TV Stuck With Each Other stars Richard Crenna and Tyne Daly as two luckless New Yorkers, a salesman and a secretary respectively. One morning they come to the office to find that their boss has dropped dead--leaving behind an open safe containing $964,000 he's not supposed to have. Crenna and Daly divide the illicit funds between them, and are immediately pursued by two thick-eared thugs (Michael J. Pollard, Bubba Smith). Thus for the rest of the film, Crenna and Daly are reluctantly paired as a united front against the bad buys. Directed by Tyne Daly's then-husband Georg Stanford Brown, Stuck With Each Other premiered on October 17, 1989. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1989
A determined editor fights tooth and nail with an executive to prevent their magazine from being taken over by a powerful publisher. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Loretta Young, Lindsay Frost, (more)
- 1989
The sole reason for watching the made-for-TV Lady in a Corner is star Loretta Young, looking as youthful and stunning as ever in the role of a powerful magazine publisher. The plot introduces a British "sleaze lord" based on you-know-who, who inaugurates a hostile takeover of Young's publishing empire. Lindsay Frost, one of Young's most trusted editors, is actually an "inside man" for the British mogul and is undermining Ms. Young at every opportunity. Despite the entreaties of marriage from faithful chief editor Brian Keith, Young digs in her designer heels and fights off the takeover. Lady in a Corner is nothing to write home about, but as the last TV appearance to date of Loretta Young it's worth an hour or so of your time. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1988
Denise (Lisa Bonet) owes Maggie (Marisa Tomei) money, and Maggie isn't about to let her forget it. Whitley (Jasmine Guy) tries to figure out a way to get her hudimifier repaired without revealing that she has installed the device in her room without permission. And after working hard on a speech for her poetry class, Jaleesa (Dawnn Lewis) can't work up the nerve to deliver the speech in public. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1988
Whitley (Jasmine Guy) tries to be tolerant of her roommate Kim's all-consuming romance with new boyfriend Robert (Brian Wesley Thomas), but her patience comes to an abrupt end when Kim (Charnele Brown) locks her out of her own room. Meanwhile, Freddie (Cree Summer) turns into a merciless tyrant when assigned to edit the campus poetry magazine. The episode's highlight finds several of the male regulars doing takeoffs of series producer Bill Cosby. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
This animated musical retells Dickens's Oliver Twist amongst animals in New York City, with Oliver as an innocent kitten who joins a gang of law-breaking dogs. When Oliver is adopted by a wealthy young woman, the gang's evil human owner hatches a kidnapping scheme to tap into the girl's fortune. ~ Judd Blaise, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Joey Lawrence, Billy Joel, (more)
- 1987
Assigned to read Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar", Theo (Malcolm Jamal-Warner) and Cockroach (Carl Anthony Payne II) cannot make heads nor tails of the text. All this changes when the Huxtable's house guest Dr. Barnabus Foster (Roscoe Lee Browne) teams up with the family's professor friend Jonathan Lawrence (Christopher Plummer) to deliver an impromptu--and very lively--Shakespeare reading. In other developments, Denise (Lisa Bonet) has distubing news for her parents; and Vanessa (Tempestt Bledsoe) is mad that she has been chosen as the model for the witch in a fairy tale written by Rudy (Keshia Knight Pulliam. This episode was originally taped for the series' third season (former regular Lisa Bonet is afforded "guest star" billing).
~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1986
Roscoe Lee Browne won an Emmy award for his first appearance as Dr. Barnabus Foster, Cliff's former college English professor and future recurring character on the Cosby Show spinoff A Different World. Having been regularly trounced at pinochle by his dad Russell (Earle Hyman) and Russell's old pal Homer (Bill Gunn), Cliff (Bill Cosby) hopes to turn the tables when Dr. Foster subsitutes for Cliff's ailing partner. Meanwhile, Theo (Malcolm-Jamal Warner) worries that his girlfriend will be less than impressed by the "faux" diamond ring he has purchased from a TV shopping show. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1983
When millionaire Wilson MacLeish, an extremely unpopular man who was notorious for his cruel practical jokes, is reported killed in a plane explosion, a surprised Magnum (Tom Selleck) learns that he has inherited MacLeish's estate--as well as an extra $50 million. Unfortunately, Magnum has also inherited a would-be murderer; MacLeish has left behind a tape recording, accusing one of his heirs (though not by name) of planning his death, and warning Magnum that he's next on the list. As the story progresses, Magnum begins to wonder if MacLeish was telling the truth, or if he is being set up for the practical joke to end all practical jokes! ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1983
Howard E. Rollins stars as martyred civil-rights spokesman Medgar Evers, while Irene Cara co-stars as his wife (and future NAACP leader) Myrlie. The film concentrates on the last years of Evers, an ex-insurance agent turned activist. His home in Jackson, Mississippi is besieged by bigots and he and his family are threatened with dire consequences, but Evers continues to work towards the goal of integrating his racially-polarized state. In June of 1963, the 37-year-old Evers is shot to death in front of his home. This 90 minute drama was adapted from a book co-authored by Mrs. Evers, Ossie Davis and J. Kenneth Rotcop. For Us, the Living was first telecast March 22, 1983 on PBS' American Playhouse. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Howard E. Rollins, Jr., Irene Cara, (more)
