Great Film Filled with Hate, The Butler

The fictional story of Cecil Gaines, a black butler to U.S. Presidents from Eisenhower - Reagan, is based on the true life story of Eugene Allen.  The film is a time capsule of the 20th C focusing on the atrocities of our nation's violent racial hatred. The movie is also a tribute to the courageous pioneers who valiently struggled to move our nation towards racial equality.  Dir. Daniel Lee (Precious) has created a stirring masterpiece by telling a human saga of a family torn apart by opposing moral convictions during the upheaval of the Civil Rights Movement and the War in Viet Nam.  Cecil Gaines, played by Forrest Whitaker (who is sure to receive his 2nd Oscar) is the Head Butler at the White House who fades in/out of the background as U.S. Pres. banter about historic civil rights policies.  Gaines is the husband to Gloria, (Oprah Winfrey, who can never fade into the background) and father to their two sons.  The elder son becomes a Freedom Rider & militant civil rights fighter much to the distress & disapproval of his parents.  The younger son leaves for Viet Nam wanting to "fight for his country."  Americans "have turned a blind eye for 200 years" to the persecution of African-Americans in our nation.  Everyone should feel compelled to see this rousing movie.  The Butler is an acknowledgement of our history and a measure of how far the needle of equality has moved.  More importantly, it serves as a powerful conscience for racial tolerance.  "Darkness cannot drive out darkness.  Only light can." (MLK)  "Peace, Love & Soultrain." (D. Cornelius)