Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years (1999) – Expert Review | Official Watch Links
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Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years (1999) Synopsis, Cast, Reviews & Watch Links
Movie Stats
Review & Score: Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years
StreamValid Editorial Review
Tells the story of Sadie and Bessie Delany, two African-American (they preferred "colored") sisters who both lived past the age of 100. They grew up on a North Carolina college campus, the daughters of the first African-American Episcopal bishop, who was born a slave, and a woman with an inter-racial background. (Auto Summary)
✅ Pros — 2
- Good production quality.
- Positive audience reception.
✖ Cons — 1
- —
- Neutral point not specified.
- Detailed critic review not available yet.
Synopsis
Tells the story of Sadie and Bessie Delany, two African-American (they preferred "colored") sisters who both lived past the age of 100. They grew up on a North Carolina college campus, the daughters of the first African-American Episcopal bishop, who was born a slave, and a woman with an inter-racial background. With the support of each other and their family, they survived encounters with racism and sexism in their own different ways. Sadie quietly and sweetly broke barriers to become the first African-American home-ec teacher in New York City, while Bessie, with her own brand of outspokenness, became the second African-American dentist in New York City. At the ages of 103 and 101, they told their story to Amy Hill Hearth, a white New York Times reporter who published an article about them. The overwhelming response launched a bestselling book, a Broadway play, and this film.
Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years presents a multi-faceted story that transcends genre, delivering powerful characters, emotional depth, and a narrative that stays with you.
Visually, the film is a marvel — every shot meticulously framed to enhance emotion and tone. The cinematography captures the story’s essence, whether through sweeping panoramas or intimate moments. Direction is assured, guiding the audience through the narrative with confident pacing and clear vision. Music and sound design underscore key scenes, elevating tension and enhancing immersion. Every creative element works in unison to produce a memorable and polished experience.
Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years provides more than just entertainment — it delivers resonance. Audiences are drawn into its emotional undercurrents, finding moments of joy, sorrow, and revelation. The storytelling offers layers that reward thoughtful viewing, blending accessible thrills with deeper meaning. From quiet introspections to intense confrontations, it maintains an emotional rhythm that captivates. It’s the kind of film that lingers in memory, inspiring discussion and introspection long after the credits roll.
In the end, Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years stands as a shining example of cinematic craft — a harmonious blend of narrative, performance, and technical achievement. It delivers a satisfying arc, fully realizing the potential of its story and characters. Whether you're a loyal follower of or a curious newcomer, this film offers something truly special. It speaks to the power of film as art, storytelling, and shared experience. Few titles manage to resonate so deeply across so many levels — this is one of them.
If you're interested in more great history films, you might also enjoy: Schindler's List, Dunkirk, 12 Years a Slave, The King's Speech, Hotel Rwanda.
Cast & Characters
- Diahann Carroll as Sadie Delany
- Ruby Dee as Annie Elizabeth 'Bessie' Delany
- Amy Madigan as Amy Hill Hearth
- Lisa Arrindell as Sadie in her 20s
- Audra McDonald as Bessie in her 20s
- Mykelti Williamson as Papa Delany
- Lonette McKee as Mama Delany
- Richard Roundtree as Booker T. Washington
- Della Reese as Martha Logan
- Ahmond as Henry Delany
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