A Lesson Before Dying (1999)

70% of users liked it
(321 ratings)

Don Cheadle, Mekhi Phifer, and Cicely Tyson star in this drama set in the 1940s about a black man sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit and teacher who is to counsel him as he awaits execution. A Lesson Before Dying is based on a novel by Ernest J. Gaines. ~ Mark Deming, Rovi

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Rating, Runtime: PG-13, 2 hr.
Directed By: Joseph Sargent
Written By: Ann Peacock
Genres: Drama

In Theaters: Jun 1, 1998 Wide
On DVD: Feb 1, 2000
Studio: HBO Video

Critic Reviews

Michael Dequina, TheMovieReport.com
This riveting drama stands far above most straight-to-tube efforts; in fact, its many virtues surpass many films that receive theatrical release.
Dennis Schwartz, Ozus' World Movie Reviews
What the film lacked was a tension; everything seemed too dry and predictable except for the theme, which was right on the money.

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Featured Audience Ratings

Lady D

The storyline is a very worthy one to tell and there was no problem with the acting abilities, but to me this film should have been more powerful to make the message and heart of the film come across better