Sounder (1972)
I just saw Sounder for the first time. A decent, earnest film, though a little bit to soft. Now, with all due respect to White liberal guilt – how on earth were Tyson and especially Winfield nominated as leads? It was not even an ensemble piece. Kevin Hooks is the only lead. Knowing that it was the '70s, and they couldn't find 5 actresses in leading roles per annum, I can see why Tyson, who gives an impressive and non sentimental portrayal of a strong, committed (and surprisingly sexual) woman, and has the second largest role, was promoted. But there was no way Winfield, whose character's absence is the main factor of the plot, charismatic as he indeed was in his limited screen time, was seen as anything but supporting.