Retrospective: Nothing But A Man (1964)

"Nothing But a Man" is written and directed by Robert M.Young &
Michael Roemer. "Nothing But a Man" was released in 1964, and the
running time for this movie is 1:30.


"Nothing But a Man" is an excellent social commentary and lyrical film
of black heritage. It's an excellent piece of cinematography by
director Michael Roemer. After watching this outstanding movie I
thought it was an excellent production by Michael Roemer, and Robert
Young. These two producers do a splendid job in directing our
attention and focus on race, human dignity, bravery, black pride, and
self respect as it relates to the sociological framework of the black
male in a terribly racially divided American southern society.

In this splendid work by Michael Roemer, and Robert M. Young, Roemer
and Young present an excellent portrait of a black man whose racial
consciences and bravery is unmovable, threatening, and definitive to a
white male society. In this movie, lead actor Ivan Van Dixion portrays
a young black man in the south that copes with racial adversity,
romance, and economic disparity. He is forced to make a decision that
effects his marriage, and existence while living in the south.

In this movie the story takes place in Alabama a state where racial
segregation is legal and the only good paying job for a black man is
to work on the railroad tracks. Duff portrayed by Ivan Van Dixion and
his friends are average guys whose only survival in this southern
state of prejudice is to work as railroad linemen, and keep quiet
thus, not making bad waves with whites. Duff Anderson on the other
hand is different he's come to the south with his on agenda. Duff a
former union man wants to make change and build a new life for him. He
meets the love of his life, Josie (Abby Lincoln) the daughter of a
prominent minister. Meanwhile, Duff's first encounter of racism begins
when two white teenagers attempt to make a degrading pass at his
girlfriend Josie; this adventure comes to a halt when the two boys
find out that Josie is the daughter of a prominent minister.

When Duff meets Josie's father, the two just don't hit it off it seems
that Josie's father feels intimidated at Duff's self-confidence.
Later, Duff marries Josie, and finds another job. While at his new job
at the wood mill Duff is put to the challenge when his white co-worker
becomes intimated by his self-assurance, and his attempt to make
change on his job when attempting to start a union. As a result, he's
fired, and face more obstacles when he attempts to find another job,
no one will hire him. And the wages are too low at other jobs Duff
finds. Duff is confronted with his inner doubts of manhood. He becomes
angry, and frustrated, and leaves wife and heads north in search of a
better life, and relationship with his father, and son. Instead he
copes with the ills of paternal abandonment, and ultimately the death
of his father.

Final Thoughts

"Nothing But a Man" is a thought provoking and heartfelt movie that
raises eyebrows. Director and writer Michael Roemer take an in-dept
look at male sociology from the black experience, and a black
perspective of family, fatherhood, employment, security, and marriage
as it reflected its pros and cons in a racially segregated south. In
this racially charged movie, Michael Roemer skillfully show us a
spurned portrait of a black man who copes with the harsh realities of
prejudice, and discrimination. Roemer successfully accomplishes his
goal when presenting a riveting portrait of a black man whom in the
midst of racial and social adversity still maintains his dignity, and
self-respect.

As for the cinematography, its black and white format is well done,
and best suited for this motion picture. As for the casting and acting
the appearance of a blues & jazz legend and Author, Abby Lincoln is
surprisingly pleasant in her portrayal as Josie. Her appearance adds a
boost of dignity to "Nothing but a Man." Ivan Van Dixion provides an
excellent and well-acted performance in his lead role as Duff
Anderson, a heartfelt lead role for this legendary actor. This all
star cast of legendary African American actors is indeed an excellent
contribution to the making of this outstanding work and piece of
cinematography by Michael Roemer and Robert M. "Nothing But A Man" is
also encompassed with an excellent sound track from Motown.

Reviewed by Lisa Smith
(c)2007