
The Old Settler
“Harlem 1943. Roommates, Romance and Rumors.”
Synopsis
The Old Settler is the story of two middle-aged sisters, Elizabeth and Quilly, who share an apartment in Harlem in 1943. The sisters quarrel amiably, but they share a wounded history that becomes revealed as the tale unfolds. An earnest but unworldly young man named Husband travels up from the South to board with the sisters while he searches for his beloved Lou Bessie, who left their small town a few years back to find a new life. Husband would like to bring Lou Bessie back home, but she's enamored with the excitement of the city, and her plans are more complicated. In time, Elizabeth and Husband begin a courtship that may or may not overcome their considerable age difference, while Quilly reacts disapprovingly.
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →Release History & Theatrical Window
April 25, 2001
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Debbie Allen
- Screenplay & Story
- John Henry Redwood, Shauneille Perry
- Original Title
- The Old Settler
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 27m
- Production Studios
- Chocolate Swan Inc., KCET, Red Bird Productions
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Debbie Allen
John Henry Redwood, Shauneille Perry
Lillian Benson
Department Leadership Roster
Debbie Allen
Director
John Henry Redwood
Writer
Lillian Benson
Editor
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Old Settler.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Old Settler
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Old Settler about?
The Old Settler is the story of two middle-aged sisters, Elizabeth and Quilly, who share an apartment in Harlem in 1943. The sisters quarrel amiably, but they share a wounded history that becomes revealed as the tale unfolds. An earnest but unworldly young man named Husband travels up from the South to board with the sisters while he searches for his beloved Lou Bessie, who left their small town a few years back to find a new life. Husband would like to bring Lou Bessie back home, but she's enamored with the excitement of the city, and her plans are more complicated. In time, Elizabeth and Husband begin a courtship that may or may not overcome their considerable age difference, while Quilly reacts disapprovingly.
Who directed The Old Settler?
The Old Settler was directed by Debbie Allen.
Who stars in The Old Settler?
The principal cast of The Old Settler includes Phylicia Rashād, Debbie Allen, Bumper Robinson, Crystal R. Fox, Bebe Drake.
When was The Old Settler released and how long is it?
The Old Settler was released in 2001 with a total runtime of 1h 27m.




















