Memphis (1992)
A tense, racially charged TV crime drama set in the 1950s Deep South, where a kidnapping scheme unravels with devastating consequences.
Memphis - Movie Information
- Original Title: Memphis
- Release Year: 1992
- Directed by: Yves Simoneau, Elliot Davis
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Crime, Drama, TV Movie
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Production Companies: Propaganda Films, River Siren Productions Inc., Turner Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Memphis - Plot
Two men and a woman in the deep south of the 1950s plot to kidnap a child from a wealthy black family, mistakenly believing that no one will try to stop them.
Where to Watch Memphis
Looking for where to watch Memphis?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Memphis - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Yves Simoneau
- Elliot Davis
Main Cast
- Cybill Shepherd
- John Laughlin
- J.E. Freeman
- Richard Brooks
- Vanessa Bell Calloway
- Martin Garner
- Moses Gunn
- Chino 'Fats' Williams
- Tothany Reynolds
- John Sullivan
Producers
- Jay Roewe
Memphis - FAQs
What is Memphis (1992) about?
Memphis is a 1992 TV crime drama set in the 1950s American Deep South. It follows two men and a woman who scheme to kidnap a child from a prosperous Black family, fatally underestimating the community's resolve and the consequences that follow their reckless, racially charged plan.
Is Memphis based on a true story?
Memphis (1992) is based on the 1969 novel of the same name by Shelby Foote, a celebrated Southern author. While the story is fictional, it draws on the deeply entrenched racial tensions and social dynamics of the 1950s American South, lending the narrative a strong sense of historical authenticity.
Who are the main actors in Memphis?
Memphis stars Cybill Shepherd as Reeny Perdew, John Laughlin as Rufus Hutton, and J.E. Freeman as Podjo Harris. The cast also includes Richard Brooks, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Moses Gunn, Martin Garner, Chino 'Fats' Williams, Tothany Reynolds, and John Sullivan.
Who directed Memphis (1992)?
Memphis (1992) was directed by Yves Simoneau, a Quebec-born filmmaker known for his work in both Canadian and American television, with cinematographer Elliot Davis also credited as co-director. The film was produced for Turner Pictures and aired as a television movie.
What is the age rating for Memphis (1992)?
Memphis (1992) carries a Not Rated (NR) classification in the United States. As a TV movie from the early 1990s dealing with themes of racial tension, kidnapping, and moral corruption in the 1950s South, it contains mature content that may not be suitable for younger viewers.
How does racial tension shape the plot of Memphis?
Racial tension is the engine driving Memphis. The kidnappers assume that targeting a Black family — even a wealthy one — will shield them from serious repercussions, reflecting the brutal racial hierarchy of the 1950s South. Their fatal miscalculation exposes the moral rot beneath that system and drives the film's central conflict.
What are similar movies to Memphis (1992)?
Viewers who enjoy Memphis may also appreciate Stand by Me (1986), Dead Poets Society (1989), Good Night, and Good Luck. (2005), and Revolutionary Road (2008) for their period atmosphere and moral weight. The Godfather (1972) and Heavenly Creatures (1994) also share its themes of crime and consequence.
How long is Memphis (1992)?
Memphis (1992) has a runtime of 100 minutes, or 1 hour and 40 minutes. As a made-for-television movie, it was designed to fit a standard broadcast slot while delivering a complete, self-contained crime drama narrative set against the racially charged backdrop of the 1950s American South.
More About Memphis
Explore further details and official listings for this film.