Cane River (1982)

In the heart of Louisiana's Natchitoches Parish, a testament to the resilience of a "free community of color," unfolds the timeless tale of CANE RIVER. The late Emmy Award-winning auteur, Horace B. Jenkins, weaves this narrative, financed by New Orleans' distinguished Rhodes family, and brought to life by an all African American ensemble. Peter, a dreamer with a gift for words and a heart brimming with love, returns to his roots after a stint as a sports star. His elite Creole lineage, with its privileged past tainted by slave-ownership, casts a long shadow over his aspirations. As fate would have it, he crosses paths with Maria, an enchanting tour guide whose beauty rivals the rich history she narrates. Their connection is instantaneous, but Maria's family, marginalized due to their darker skin, view Peter's high-born Creole heritage with disdain. Their budding romance becomes a battlefield, mirroring the community's ongoing struggle against colorism. The couple must unravel the complex web of Peter's family's past, confront the privilege and prejudice it signifies, and reconcile it with their love if they hope to carve out a future together in this evocatively crafted love story.

Cane River is a drama movie featuring Tommye Myrick and directed by Horace B. Jenkins.

Cane River is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Fandor Amazon Channel, MUBI, MUBI Amazon Channel and OVID.

It is also possible to buy Cane River on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies and YouTube.