Netflix's new film 'Color Book' is being hailed as a 'breathtaking masterpiece' by critics, yet it has not received the promotional push many fans believe it deserves. The film, which follows a single father and his son with Down's syndrome on a journey to a baseball game, is now streaming on the platform.
Plot and Performances
According to the synopsis, the story centers on Lucky, a single father not long after his wife's death, who navigates the challenges of raising his son Mason, who has Down's syndrome. Seeking solace, Lucky and Mason embark on a journey across Metro Atlanta to attend their first baseball game together. Throughout their day-long trip, they encounter Murphy's Law, facing a series of obstacles from car breakdowns to missed trains that test their relationship. Despite the setbacks, they persevere, determined to reach the game.
The film is described as providing an intimate portrait of a father and son while exploring the experiences of raising a child with Down's syndrome, highlighting the strength and resilience formed by their bond.
Behind-the-Scenes Inspiration
The title was written and directed by filmmaker David Fortune, who has an inspiring story linked to the Netflix release. He was part of the streamer's Netflix and Ghetto Film School Content Creator Program, with his short film titled 'Us' back in 2022. 'Us' has now formed the basis of his feature debut. After taking part in the original initiative, Fortune was selected for Film Independent’s Amplifier Fellowship, another Netflix-supported program for emerging filmmakers. Over the next year, he workshopped and received grants to create a pitch video, leading to funding for the film.
He also picked up the AT&T Untold Stories competition at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, coming with a $1 million prize and a year of mentorship. This all resulted in the finished product that is the film 'Color Book'. According to those who have already watched it, all this investment and hard work has been well worth it. Many believe that it shows Fortune is a director to watch for the future. The film even picked up several awards during a run at film festivals leading up to its Netflix release.
Critical Acclaim
The film hasn't received enough reviews to earn a score on Rotten Tomatoes, but the verdicts it has received are glowing. One critic went so far as to declare: 'David Fortune’s Color Book is an intimate, breathtaking masterpiece. Anchored by phenomenal performances from William Catlett and Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, this soulful feature reminded me exactly why I love film.'
Another agreed and claimed: 'Netflix’s new hidden gem Color Book is a heartbreaking, must-watch father-son drama.' They added: 'David Fortune’s striking feature debut is a quiet, emotionally powerful masterpiece that deserves a top spot on your Netflix watchlist.'
Echoing the sentiment, one reviewer penned: 'It works on every level, and it's as uplifting as it is heartbreaking. Only time will tell for sure, but I believe David Fortune has made a classic–and possibly even a masterpiece.'
Fan Reactions
Fans who have already watched it have also shared their concern that Netflix has not done enough to promote the film, and that it is already lost amidst user's algorithms. One fan urged others to 'take the time to sit down and watch' the film. Another admitted: 'The twist in the story left me on the edge of my seat. This is a family friendly film about making the best out of hard times and difficult situations. I will strongly recommend this movie to film lovers.'
Color Book is streaming on Netflix.
