The Summer of Ben Tyler (1996)

In the heated crucible of 1940s Southern society, a man's conscience sparks a chain reaction of racism and intolerance. Attorney Temple Rayburn, portrayed by James Woods, is a beacon of integrity in his small community. His life intertwines with that of Ben Tyler, a mentally challenged African-American youth played by Charles Mattocks, who is adrift in a harsh world. Compassion stirs within Temple and his wife Celia, brought to life by Elizabeth McGovern, prompting them to invite Ben into their home. However, their act of kindness is a radical defiance against the era's rigid racial norms, where even shared drinking fountains are a forbidden concept. The Rayburn household soon transforms into the eye of a political hurricane, as their decision sparks controversy and ignites the town's simmering tensions. "The Summer of Ben Tyler" masterfully paints a portrait of a time and place where the boundaries of humanity are tested, and the courage to challenge societal norms can incite a whirlwind of conflict.

The Summer of Ben Tyler is a drama movie featuring James Woods.

The Summer of Ben Tyler is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Plex and Plex Player and it's also available on DIRECTV.