Institute History
Description
A Raisin in the Sun, the award-winning play by Lorraine Hansberry, comes to vibrant life in this filmed version that takes this seminal work to a deeper level and hopefully brings it to the awareness of a new audience. The all-star cast, several of whom won Tony Awards in the most recent revival on Broadway, reunites to recreate this enduring dramatic portrait.
The story is set in the 1950s and focuses on the Younger family, who are struggling to make ends meet on Chicago’s south side. An insurance check is about to arrive that will change the course of their lives forever. Each family member, however, has a different idea about how to spend the newfound wealth in his or her eagerness to shape a new life. Family ties are put to the test as the Youngers face problems as individuals and even bigger issues as an African-American family daring to pursue the American dream.
What makes A Raisin in the Sun special is that this is not a simple filming of a stage play. It has been elegantly transformed from stage to film by director Kenny Leon’s careful guidance and the performances of a talented and insightful cast. In their capable hands, this American classic reveals it is as timely and significant as ever.