Mandingo (1975)

Set against the backdrop of mid-nineteenth century Louisiana, the dilapidated plantation of Falconhurst is the stage of our tale. The estate, under the ownership of Warren Maxwell, is primarily managed by his limping son, Hammond Maxwell, a consequence of an early childhood mishap. Pressures mount on Hammond to secure an heir for the Maxwell lineage as his father's life teeters on the edge. Hammond, inexperienced in the art of courtship and having known only fleeting encounters with slaves and courtesans, finds his bride in his cousin, Blanche. She consents to the union, seeking an exit from the clutches of her brutal brother, Charles. This marriage, far from a typical courtship, sets the stage for a tumultuous relationship. As per the Maxwell custom, Hammond acquires a slave, Ellen, during his honeymoon in New Orleans. Their paths crossed when Ellen, a gift from her former master, is bestowed upon Hammond. Simultaneously, Hammond purchases Mede, a robust Mandingo slave, fulfilling his father's longstanding desire. The intention is to breed Mede with their female slaves, creating a lineage of Mandingo offspring to be sold at a premium. Under unforeseen circumstances, Hammond thrusts Mede into the brutal and often fatal world of slave fighting. Meanwhile, Hammond's marriage to Blanche withers amidst revelations from their wedding night, driving him closer to Ellen. Blanche, in return, unleashes her fury on Hammond in her unique way. As the story unfolds, it unveils the slaves bearing the brunt of their master's woes, navigating the tumultuous waters of Falconhurst.

Mandingo is a drama movie featuring James Mason.

Mandingo is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy.

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