‘Color Book,’ directed by David Fortune, is a poignant exploration of love, resilience, and community through the bond between a father and son. The story follows Lucky, a recently widowed father played with remarkable depth by William Catlett, as he embarks on a journey with his son Mason, portrayed with authenticity by Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, who has Down syndrome. Setting out to attend their first baseball game together, Lucky and Mason find their day disrupted by one obstacle after another—unforeseen setbacks that ultimately test and strengthen their relationship.
The film’s power lies in its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of Lucky and Mason’s relationship. Fortune’s screenplay deftly captures the complexities of parenting a child with Down syndrome, highlighting the challenges without diminishing the profound joy and love they share. As the duo navigates their day, each hurdle—from missed trains to car troubles—reveals their persistence and a universal truth about parenthood: the unbreakable connection between a parent and child provides the strength to keep moving forward. This authenticity is heightened by Catlett and Daniels’ chemistry, bringing an unfiltered warmth and naturalness to their roles that make their bond feel real and relatable, avoiding sentimental clichés in favor of heartfelt sincerity.
Filmed in black and white, ‘Color Book’ has a reflective, timeless quality that enhances the emotional weight of its story, drawing attention to the quiet, intimate moments that define Lucky and Mason’s journey. Fortune explained during the Austin Film Festival Q&A that he wanted to celebrate the positive aspects of a father-son relationship and showcase Black culture and community in a way that feels both genuine and uplifting. This intention is beautifully realized through a supporting ensemble cast that shines, each character adding texture and depth to the story and grounding Lucky and Mason’s journey within a larger, loving community.
Every mishap, moment of frustration, and shared laugh feels like a step toward healing for Lucky and a new adventure for Mason. The film reminds us that life, much like their journey, is unpredictable, and it is in these small, unexpected moments that resilience and strength are found. As one of the standout films at the 2024 Austin Film Festival, ‘Color Book’ is a sincere and heartwarming portrait of family, celebrating the power of love and community and redefining portrayals of Black fatherhood with grace and depth.