The Learning Tree

A slow, earnest coming-of-age drama that immerses you in a small town's racial injustices and a young man's moral awakening, leaving a heavy, poignant aftertaste.

Directed by

Gordon Parks

Genres

Drama

Starring

Kyle Johnson, Alex Clarke, Estelle Evans

Overview

The story, set in Kansas during the 1920's, covers less than a year in the life of a black teenager, and documents the veritable deluge of events which force him into sudden manhood. The family relationships and enmities, the fears, frustrations and ambitions of the black teenager in small-town America are explored with a strong statement about human values.

How it feels

Earnest, melancholic and tense. Measured and needs your attention.

About

Race, coming-of-age, family, justice

Content

Strong violence. Mild gore, sexual content and language.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

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Watch the trailer on YouTube (opens in a new tab)