A Family Thing
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A Family Thing

(1996)Directed by Richard Pearce109 min · PG-13Comedy, Drama
“With family, everything is relative.”

A letter arrives after the funeral, and it says Earl Pilcher Jr. (Robert Duvall), who runs an equipment rental outfit in Arkansas, was born to a Black woman who died giving birth to him. He drives to Chicago to meet a half brother, Ray Murdock (James Earl Jones), and gets a cold welcome from Ray and his son Virgil (Michael Beach). Richard Pearce keeps the camera close and slow, and lets the awkwardness of the first visit run long.

Robert Duvallas Earl Pilcher Jr.
James Earl Jonesas Ray Murdock
Michael Beachas Virgil
Irma P. Hallas Aunt T.
David Keithas Sonny
Xander Berkeleyas Sunburned Man
Jacqueline Williamsas Woman at Hospital
Mary Jacksonas Carrie
Meg Thalkenas Doctor
RLRichard Lexseeas Truckjacker
James N. Harrellas Earl Pilcher Sr.
Lauren Leigh Phillipsas Kindra
Ashleigh Jordanas Danielle
Saundra Quartermanas Young Aunt T.
Reggie Hayesas Virgil's Friend
Patrice Pitman Quinnas Willa Mae
DJDon Jamesas Junior Turner
Jim Sandersonas Dr. Parks
Crystal Laws Greenas Maotis