description The Butler Overview
The Butler depicts the life of an African-American man who served as a White House butler across several presidential administrations. The film draws upon an article examining his experiences during key moments in American civil rights history. It was directed by Lee Daniels and written by Danny Strong.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
info The Butler Specifications
| Country | United States |
| Year | 2013 |
help The Butler FAQ
Is the movie The Butler based on a true story?
The 2013 film is loosely based on the life of Eugene Allen, a real African-American butler who served in the White House for 34 years. It was inspired by a 2008 Washington Post article by Wil Haygood. Director Lee Daniels took significant creative liberties with the family storyline.
Who plays the presidents in Lee Daniels' The Butler?
The film features a massive ensemble cast playing historical figures, including Robin Williams as Dwight D. Eisenhower and Alan Rickman as Ronald Reagan. John Cusack plays Richard Nixon, while Jane Fonda portrays Nancy Reagan. Forest Whitaker stars as the titular butler, Cecil Gaines.
Why did the movie use the title Lee Daniels' The Butler?
The film had a highly publicized legal battle with Warner Bros., which claimed it owned the rights to the title "The Butler" from a 1916 silent film. The MPAA ruled that the title had to be changed. Director Lee Daniels' name was appended to the title as a legally acceptable compromise.
What historical events are shown in The Butler?
The narrative spans several decades of American history, directly observing the civil rights movement from the White House's perspective. Key events include the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Vietnam War, and the passage of the Civil Rights Act. The protagonist's son, Louis, actively participates in the Freedom Rides and the Black Panther Party.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
