Based on a true story, American Violet looks at the case of Dee Roberts (Nicole Beharie), a young single mother in Texas who was arrested for dealing drugs. Her arrest was part of a sweep by a corrupt district attorney (Michael O'Keefe) who incarcerated people indiscriminately, then pressured them to take plea bargains. Determined to prove her innocence, Dee sued the district attorney, with the help of a lawyer (Tim Blake Nelson) from the American Civil Liberties Union. All the while, she was pressured by her mother (Alfre Woodard) to plead guilty, while her children's abusive father (Xzibit) tried to take custody of the kids. Directed by Tim Disney. With Will Patton. Categories: Drama. Year: 2008.
Nicole Beharie in American Violet