Common Sense Media Review
By Barbara Saunders
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Violent but powerful historical drama about Black soldiers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The 24th
What's the Story?
When THE 24TH begins, a group of Black soldiers is stationed in Houston, Texas, in 1917, working on construction projects. One of them, William Boston (Trai Byers), who was educated at the Sorbonne, has high ideals for helping to elevate his fellow soldiers and their race as a whole. The regiment's White commanding officer, Col. Norton (Thomas Haden Church), offers to send Boston for officer training, but he refuses; he doesn't want to be separated into an elite. The other men (especially a jaded, older sergeant and a romantic rival) don't trust Boston at first, but he gradually wins them over. The soldiers are harassed by the local White population, including the police force. Tensions come to a head when a soldier tries to defend a Black citizen from brutal police officers, which leads to armed conflict between the Black soldiers and White mobs. The film is based on a true story: Eleven civilians and four police officers were killed in the conflict. Four soldiers died by friendly fire, and one by suicide. Nineteen soldiers were later executed after being court-martialed.
Is It Any Good?
Disturbing but nuanced, with stunning naturalistic cinematography, this film is best suited for mature teens and adults. The 24th shines in the way every character is presented with depth. The justifiable rage and emotional scars of the Black soldiers show; none is a saint. And Norton, the helpful White character, isn't presented as a "savior" but rather as a man driven by his insecurities as well as a sense of right and wrong. Even the most despicably racist character gets a genuinely sympathetic backstory, which makes the story emotionally compelling rather than preachy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in The 24th. How does it compare to what you might see in a big-budget action movie? Which has more impact?
The soldiers mention many historical events that shaped their lives. Are there any you'd like to learn more about? Had you heard of the events featured in this film before watching?
How do the characters demonstrate integrity and courage? Why are those important character strengths?
How do the visual choices in the film communicate emotions?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : August 21, 2020
- Cast : Trai Byers
- Director : Kevin Willmott
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Director(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Vertical Entertainment
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Friendship , History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity
- Run time : 101 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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