Together for Days

Together for Days, released in 1972, stands out as one of the early forerunners of independently produced culturally specific cinema. This exceptional drama is deeply rooted in the examination of racial tension, relationships, and societal expectations, while also exploring the themes of love, identity, and political activism.

The film is headlined by Clifton Davis, famous for his roles in high-profile TV series like "That's My Mama" and "Amen". And he's joined by Lois Chiles, a widely acclaimed actress best known for her performances in "The Great Gatsby" and the James Bond film "Moonraker", along with Northern Calloway, best associated with his long-standing role in "Sesame Street". The dynamic trio brings the story alive with powerful performances and unique portrayals of their intricate characters.

Directed by accomplished filmmaker Michael Schultz, Together for Days is remarkable for its daring and innovative approach. Schultz's masterful handling of the story brought to life the sentiments of the early 70s with his raw portrayal of the racial climate of the time.

The narrative focuses on an interracial relationship between Michael (played by Davis), a Black political activist, and a white woman, Katherine (played by Chiles). Based in Atlanta, Georgia, during the racially charged era of the 1970s, their love blossoms at a time when such unions were still considered scandalous, if not outright dangerous, by many in America. The pair faces societal judgement, family disapproval, and personal dilemmas, all the while staying interestingly intertwined with the wider political and cultural implications of what their relationship symbolizes.

Katherine's brother, Potter, portrayed by Northern Calloway, adds another bold facet to the storyline. As a liberal, he tries to bridge racial disparities, but even he grapples with the unexpected relationship that Michael and Katherine share. His reactions and transformation throughout the movie not only provide him significant character growth but also serve as a representation of the conflicting ideals prevalent during that time.

The plot further thickens as the movie delves into the generational tensions between Michael and his father, highlighting the growing divide between old-school thought and newer, more radical ideas about racial equality and justice. Michael’s political activism comes to the forefront in these scenes, providing audiences with a glimpse into the vibrant, often tumultuous, societal movements of the era.

The movie's title, Together for Days, gives a poignant hint at the fleeting nature of the lovers' time together, mirroring the fragile and temporary nature of social unity amidst a backdrop of racial tension and civil unrest. Each scene masterfully builds on this theme, overlaying the personal with the political to form a complex, dynamic plot.

Together for Days is considered a milestone for African-American cinema. It effectively probed into the anatomy of an interracial relationship, not just at a surface level but deep down into the socio-political implications it carries within a racially divided society, a subject that few dared to tackle back then. Moreover, it also delves into the phenomenon of Black activism and political dialogue, which hugely resonates to the present day.

Aided by skilled cinematography, the visuals of this film have a stark way of speaking volumes. The lens doesn’t shy away from the imminent racial discord and captures the significant cultural shifts in the era. The tension is subtly woven into the narrative through expert cinematography and artful set design.

Its heart-wrenching narrative, accomplished performances, notably Clifton Davis's command over his character’s strong political beliefs, and Lois Chiles' ability to portray the challenging circumstances of her character, all contribute to making this film a critical piece in the annals of cinema. These features inevitably ensure Together for Days resonates with its audience and remains a relevant and poignant commentary on societal issues.

In conclusion, Together for Days is an enthralling exploration of race, relationships, and societal norms. It's an invitation to its audience to confront difficult topics head-on, to learn from the past and to consider the enduring influence these social issues have had on our society. Through its talented cast, compelling narrative, and thought-provoking themes, the film offers a brave and insightful look into an all-too-often overlooked aspect of American history.