A Time for Burning

Watch A Time for Burning

  • 1966
  • 56 min
  • 7.7  (204)

A Time for Burning is a powerful documentary film from 1967 that explores racial tensions and the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Directed by Bill Jersey and Barbara Connell, the film centers around the efforts of a young African-American pastor named Ernie Chambers to integrate his Lutheran church in Omaha, Nebraska. The documentary begins with Rev. Chambers expressing his desire to reach out to the white community and integrate his church, despite the resistance he has faced from both the black and white members of his congregation. This leads him to seek the help of a white pastor, Rev. Ray Cristensen, who agrees to participate in a series of dialogues between members of their respective churches.

The film chronicles the meetings that take place between the two churches over several months, capturing the emotional and often heated exchanges between members on both sides. Many of the white members express fear and resentment of the black community, citing crime and a loss of property values as their main concerns. They also express doubts about the motives of Rev. Chambers, accusing him of wanting to force white people out of his church.

Meanwhile, the black members of Rev. Chambers' church express frustration and anger at the slow pace of progress, with some calling for more radical action. Rev. Chambers himself struggles with his role as a leader, facing criticism and skepticism from members of his own congregation who feel he is too accommodating to the white community.

As the dialogues continue, tensions rise and the divide between the two churches seems insurmountable. However, the film offers a glimmer of hope when a young white couple, Bill and Lois Youngdahl, attend one of Rev. Chambers' services and express their support for integration.

Although the film does not have a neat, happy ending, it does offer a nuanced and honest portrayal of the challenges that accompany efforts to bridge racial divides. It also provides important context for the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States today.

A Time for Burning is an essential watch for anyone interested in the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing fight for racial equality. Its frank and unflinching look at the complexities of race relations in America makes it a powerful and thought-provoking film that remains relevant more than fifty years after its release.

A Time for Burning
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Description
  • Release Date
    1966
  • Runtime
    56 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.7  (204)