Expected more

Fun premise, good actors, bad writing. This film seemed to have potential at the beginning but it quickly devolves into a trite action film. Ultimately it's very boring.

Let me be very fair here, this is not the best movie in my opinion. But, this movie is fun, it has purpose and is very enjoyable to watch.

Very good movie overall, highly recommended. Most of the negative reviews don't have any merit and are all pollitically based. Give this movie a chance at least, and it might give you a different perspective.

If you've ever doubted that truth could be stranger than fiction, you won't after viewing American Violet. Based on true events surrounding reluctant and (as a stereotypical unwed teen mom working as a waitress)—unlikely heroine under the pseudonym Dee Roberts, the 2008 release depicts one woman's story. Starting with her arrest in Texas in late 2000, it sheds light on the virtual police state imposed upon residents of a besieged housing project where Roberts, her children, the father of two of her four daughters, and his girlfriend live. The storyline, however, culminates differently then usual Hollywood-scripted endings, in early 2002. You'll be shocked and appalled as the real-life saga, at times more harrowing than a roller coaster ride, unfolds. Multi-layered with a multitude of insightful twists and turns throughout, including Roberts' volatile relationship with her babies' daddy and their embittered back and forth custody battle; you can't write this stuff. The filmmakers note the Texas community represents a microcosm of many U.S. cities plagued by similar problems that exist all over America, and Roberts quickly learns 'the truth will not always set you free.' At the heart of the compelling urban drama is the profound impact of a singular change in Texas judicial law that significantly impacts the penal system, which potentially affects scores of minorities. Thousands were literally swept up in the nearly ten-year, tyrannical reign of terror led by the bigoted district attorney against inhabitants of the public complex to insure they reached maximum numbers of drug convictions. While the cast features mostly unknowns in key supporting parts, veteran stage, screen and TV stars Alfre Woodard (the first black neighbor on Desperate Housewives) as Roberts' mother, and former Roc series lead Charles Dutton in the pivotal role of the local reverend. Hip Hop icon Xzibit, plays Roberts' ex. Brooklyn, NY native Malcolm Barrett distinguishes himself as the second ACLU attorney helping to bring down the corrupt D.A. and overtly racist drug enforcement agency.Directed by Tim Disney, grandnephew of Walt, American Violet is world's apart from the classic animated features and family-oriented comedies the family business was built on. This Disney is adapting serious themes to entertain, as well as inform and enlighten.

I just watched this movie and would recommend it to all my friends and family. It is a drama based on a true story that happened in Texas. The movie is not the kind that you can't bring yourself to watch because of too much violence. Excellent performances, especially by the strong women roles, and most especially by the beautiful Nicole Beharie. The movie shows how unfair our legal system can be when the people running the show are biased and full of hatred just because someone is of a different color. I especially loved American Violet because the ACLU fought for justice and Dee Roberts, (Beharie) refused to be beat down by the system into accepting a plea bargain when she knew she was not guilty. She stood up for herself, even though she had to endure harassment and threats, but came out a winner in the end. Justice won! I love those kind of "feel good" stories. I think I'll go out and buy it.

This film was outstanding. I recently viewed the DVD. Why was it not publicized much? While it was in a few theaters, there were no shows posted in North Florida Theatres and shows in the deep south were limited.This film is an extremely important and educational film which should (and hopefully will) get more air time. Please get the word out! People can handle it without rivalry. It will be OK. Please put it on Cable and National TV ASAP. The acting was phenomenal in all areas.It was truly amazing to see that this type of activity still takes place in our Nation. The film was depicting events that took place only a few years ago based on the Bush Presidential Election results information contained within the film.Thanks.

Somewhat preachy, but revealing story of how DAs in rural Texas in particular and maybe South in general have and use the power to make their statistics look good by picking on African Americans. The first half has the ambiance of a taut documentary. Less so after the civil lawsuit began. It should have been a civil rights suit in the federal court, but this wasn't made clear at first. The deposition scenes really detracted from the impact, but maybe that's the way depositions are conducted in Texas. Alfra Woodard as the Grandmother takes the top acting honors. However, the acting was first rate from top to bottom.Jim Madison, Menlo Park, CA