Roots -

Premise

“Roots” is a landmark television mini-series based on Alex Haley’s novel, tracing the journey of an African man, Kunta Kinte, captured and sold into slavery, and his descendants across several generations. Set in the 18th and 19th centuries, the series follows the lives of enslaved Africans and their descendants in America, exploring the brutal realities of slavery and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Main Characters

Kunta Kinte (LeVar Burton): A you
Chicken George (Ben Vereen): Municipality K
Kizzy Reynolds (Leslie Uggams): Municipality
Tom Lea (Edward Asner): The master of the plantation where Kunta Kinte is enslaved, known for his cruelty and oppression.
Fiddler (Louis Gossett Jr.): A fellow slave who becomes a mentor and father figure to Kunta Kinte.

Themes

“Roots” explores themes of identity, resilience, and the legacy of slavery. Through its portrayal of the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade and the resilience of enslaved individuals, the series sheds light on the enduring impact of slavery on American society. It also emphasizes the importance of family, heritage, and cultural identity in the face of oppression and adversity.

Critical Consensus Rating: 5/5 Critics universally praised “Roots” for its powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and historical significance. The series was lauded for its unflinching portrayal of the brutality of slavery and its impact on generations of African Americans. Its groundbreaking approach to depicting African American history on television earned it widespread acclaim and cemented its status as a cultural landmark.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-14 “Roots” is rated TV-14 (Parents Strongly Cautioned) due to its depiction of violence, slavery, and mature themes. While the series provides an important educational resource, its content may not be suitable for younger audiences without parental guidance.

Original Network and Years: The mini-series originally aired on ABC (American Broadcasting Company) in January 1977.