American Violet is a powerful film about one woman’s fight against the unjust legal system. The film released in theaters this past April, has been praised at many film festivals, and will be available on DVD October 13, 2009.

Release Date: October 13, 2009
Rating: PG-13, Bonus Features Not Rated
Run time: 103 minutes

Nicole Beharie (The Express), Will Patton (Entrapment, The Postman), Charles Dutton (TV’s Roc, Mimic) and Alfre Woodard (TV’s Desperate Housewives, Primal Fear) star in this gripping true-life story. Falsely accused of distributing narcotics in a school zone, Dee Roberts (Beharie) is offered a deal she can’t refuse: plead guilty and accept a 10-year suspended sentence. The alternative: risk serving 16-to-25 in jail. Realizing a conviction would ruin her life, Dee decides to fight back. Suing the DA for racial discrimination, Dee battles impossible odds in a case that will not only change her life but the laws of Texas as well.

Having never seen a preview for this film, I did not know what to expect at all from this film and I was blown away by all of the incredible performances from the cast and the well written screenplay, based on this true story. Newcomer, Nicole Behaire shines in the lead role of Dee Roberts! There is no doubt about it, American Violet is one of the most powerful films that people will see this year. It is so refreshing to see an African American cast bring such a meaningful story to the big screen and it is no wonder this film was a New York Times Critic’s Pick. Viewers will be taken aback by the extraordinary courage portrayed in this film and will inspire many to fight for what is right. I encourage you to see this film and share it with everyone you know.

DVD Special Features:

Director’s Audio Commentary – The commentary was conducted by director, Tim Disney. Tim provides an abundant amount of information about the film, starting with telling viewers that while the true story took place in Texas, production for the film took place in Louisiana. Tim also gives background information on titling the film, challenges cast and crew faced while filming, choosing the music for the film, and more. He makes it a point to discuss casting the lead actress and also Dee’s 4 daughters, who are actually real life sisters. He mentions how the cast and crew dealt with the children in the more emotional scenes, which is something viewers may have wanted to know about in their first viewing of the film. There is lots discussed and much to learn in this commentary and Tim Disney did a great job.

Telluride Film Festival Interview – This short length interview included the lead, Nicole Beharie and the woman who inspired this real life story, Regina Kelly as well as director, Tim Disney. Tim does the majority of the speaking and talks bout everything from the story to casting. While a fabulous feature, it was far too short. It would have been nice to have seen the entire Q&A, or even a separate interview with Regina Kelly. Even still, viewers will enjoy this feature.

American Violet releases on Blu-ray and DVD October 13, 2009.