A Warm December

A Warm December is an underappreciated gem from 1973 starring the legendary Sidney Poitier alongside Ester Anderson, and Yvette Curtis. The movie marks another achievement in Poitier's laudable career, as it is his second directorial venture after his successful debut as a director in "Buck and the Preacher" in 1972. Poitier plays the lead role of Dr. Matt Younger, an American widower and a prominent doctor who is not only dealing with the grief of losing his wife but also the responsibility of raising his ten-year-old daughter. The role is brought to life by Poitier's characteristic finesse and charm, highlighting his true prowess as an actor.

The movie takes off when Dr. Younger decides to take his daughter, Stefanie, played by the delightful Yvette Curtis, on a work-related trip to London. The father-daughter duo explores the city, and during one of their adventures, they encounter a mysterious woman named Catherine, played by the vibrant Ester Anderson.

Catherine, an enigmatic figure who captures Dr. Younger's attention with her enchanting beauty, is the niece of an African ambassador. She is refined, graceful, and holds a certain irresistible appeal. However, Catherine is also seen as elusive, prompting an intrigued Dr. Younger to go to great lengths to unravel the secrets behind her elusive demeanor. The ensuing narrative exhibits rare sensitivity as it explores complex themes of love, loss, race, and health. Anderson's portrayal of Catherine is pitch-perfect, successfully capturing the character's complexities.

There's a sweet subplot to the narrative as well in the form of Dr. Younger's budding relationship with his daughter. Poitier's portrayal of a single father juggling professional responsibilities and childcare exhibits a compelling dynamic, allowing for moments of warmth, humor, and heart. Furthermore, the chemistry between Poitier and Curtis is evident, reinforcing the authenticity of their on-screen bond.

Set against the backdrop of beautiful London, the movie uses its locations to its advantage, weaving picturesque scenery and charming European aesthetics into the storytelling. Moreover, cinematography in A Warm December is commendable. The visual storytelling is every bit as compelling as the dramatic narrative, reflecting the attentiveness and thoughtfulness of the director, Poitier himself.

The film is further uplifted by its music. The original soundtrack, with a combination of soul, jazz, and pop hits, captures the ambiance of the '70s and serves as an excellent backdrop for the movie's emotional arcs. The presence of the movie's title track, "A Warm December," by musical duo Michael and Raymond Yhap, is particularly endearing, somewhat becoming the soul of the movie.

However, what really distinguishes A Warm December is its heartfelt portrayal of a representative spectrum of black characters and experiences during the period. The film does an admirable job of portraying a complex and multifaceted black experience in a period where black characters were often reduced to stereotypes. By presenting an African American protagonist as both a successful doctor and a loving father, the film challenges existing stereotypes and depicts a more nuanced and diverse image of the African American community.

Apart from that, the interplay of love and mystery, the allure of foreign lands, coupled with Sidney Poitier's charismatic acting and directorial prowess, make A Warm December a unique and compelling cinematic experience. Whether you're a fan of Sidney Poitier or a lover of classic cinema, "A Warm December" is a movie that beautifully encapsulates the essence of its era. It remains a touching tale of love, loss, and acceptance that still resonates with its audiences today. The film is an absolute testament to the timeless quality of Poitier's work and a valuable addition to the annals of 1970s cinema.