Deacons for Defense
Synopsis
Inspired by a true story, this drama is set in 1965, not long after passage of the Civil Rights Act. Despite the Act, the African-American citizens of Bogalusa are still treated like third-class citizens, their fundamental rights as human beings persistently trampled by the white power structure, in general, and the local branch of the KKK. The story follows the formation of local black men, particularly ex-war veterans who after the struggles become too overbearing organizes the group, "Deacons for defense", an all-black defense group dedicated to patrolling the black section of town and protecting its residents from the more violent aspects of "white backlash."
Trailers, Teasers & Extra Featurettes
Official promotional previews, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive clips.
Deacons For Defense - Movie Trailer
Type: Trailer • Published 2011-11-21
Top Cast
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Forest Whitaker
Marcus Clay
Jonathan Silverman
Michael Deane
Chris Britton
William Chase
Ossie Davis
Reverend 'Rev' Gregory
Tyrone Benskin
Archie
Mpho Koaho
Bailey
Melanie Nicholls-King
Rose Clay
Adam Weiner
Charles Hillibrand
Boyd Banks
Weber
Paul Benjamin
Otis
Aaron Walpole
Jimmy
Beau Starr
Neely
Gene Mack
T.J.
Khafre Armatrading
Brooks Clay
Paulino Nunes
Lawson
Serena Lee
Lucille Clay
Daniel Kash
Slocum
Release History & Theatrical Window
April 12, 2005
Physical Home Media
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Bill Duke
- Screenplay & Story
- Frank Military, Richard Wesley, Michael D'Antonio
- Original Score
- Michel Colombier
- Original Title
- Deacons for Defense
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 35m
- Production Studios
- RHI Entertainment
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Bill Duke
Frank Military, Richard Wesley, Michael D'Antonio
Michel Colombier
Ron Stannett
Harry Keramidas
Nick Grillo
Department Leadership Roster
Bill Duke
Director
Frank Military
Writer
Richard Wesley
Writer
Tamara Winston
Costume Design
Harry Keramidas
Editor
Ron Stannett
Director of Photography
Peter Emmink
Production Design
Nick Grillo
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Deacons for Defense.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Deacons for Defense
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Deacons for Defense about?
Inspired by a true story, this drama is set in 1965, not long after passage of the Civil Rights Act. Despite the Act, the African-American citizens of Bogalusa are still treated like third-class citizens, their fundamental rights as human beings persistently trampled by the white power structure, in general, and the local branch of the KKK. The story follows the formation of local black men, particularly ex-war veterans who after the struggles become too overbearing organizes the group, "Deacons for defense", an all-black defense group dedicated to patrolling the black section of town and protecting its residents from the more violent aspects of "white backlash."
Who directed Deacons for Defense?
Deacons for Defense was directed by Bill Duke.
Who stars in Deacons for Defense?
The principal cast of Deacons for Defense includes Forest Whitaker, Jonathan Silverman, Chris Britton, Ossie Davis, Tyrone Benskin.
When was Deacons for Defense released and how long is it?
Deacons for Defense was released in 2005 with a total runtime of 1h 35m.
Who composed the musical score for Deacons for Defense?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Deacons for Defense was composed by Michel Colombier.