In the rush to produce the latest multi-million dollar, big-budgeted, star-laden cinematic extravaganza, many distributors are missing the opportunity to release films of top quality that appeal to the emotional levels of us all. Granted, filmmaking is a business and the bottom line is still profits. However, there is a large audience that is seeking a good story with a cast and crew of talented professionals whose work is evident on the big screen. This audience can, too, make a film into a top-grosser. "The Lena Baker Story" is a prime example of a film that appeals to the moviegoer that wants a story, a genuine masterwork that was made by a filmmaker that truly understands film and storytelling. Adapted from the book by Lela Bond Phillips, with assistance by Karan Pittman, and written for the screen by director Ralph Wilcox, the movie is riveting from beginning to end. Telling the story of the events leading up and the eventual execution of impoverished South Georgia native Lena Baker in 1945, the movie speaks to us all about such negatives as racism, abuse of women, poverty, and the imperfections of the legal system. However, the movie also touches on such positives as the strength of the church, the unbinding love of family, and the search for justice, no matter how long the latter takes. Wilcox, himself an actor, has assembled a cast of well-known faces, as well as new ones, and they all have “come up to the plate” in their respective parts. Because of Wilcox’s appreciation of the craft, there are no small parts in this film. Even the smaller roles allow each actor a chance to shine. Kaya Camp and Jasmine Farmer are outstanding in their respective roles of young Lena and young Nettie. They are also supported by first-time actor Lamar Perkins, Jr. as young Royal. A moving portrayal of a youngster showing off his reading ability is provided by young Christopher Hayward, Jr. Natalie Richardson and Santana Shelton in the roles of the teenaged Lena and Nettie, respectively, are superb in their limited screen time. Along with the aforementioned performers, memorable turns are provided by supporting players Susie Spears, Frank Roberts, and Deborah Callaway Duke. As far as the principal cast is concerned, they are as talented as talented can get. Chris Burns dons the “black hat” role of the son of the farmer Lena was forced to kill. Burns is quite effective, especially in the scene wherein he physically assaults Baker. Veteran heavy Michael Rooker brings a bit of pathos to his “good-old-boy-sheriff” role and exemplifies how law officials of the past had to enforce convictions that they knew were wrong. Beverly Todd is captivating as Lena Baker’s mother. Her part is one of quiet strength and love for her daughter and Todd tackles the role that only an actor of unlimited talent could do. Though his part may be considered the “villain” of the piece, Peter Coyote manages to convey a bit of sympathy as the abusive and alcoholic “Mr. Arthur.” Because of Wilcox’s excellent screenplay, viewers see in Coyote’s part the “grays” that so many have, neither good nor bad but somewhere in the middle. Coyote, a longtime veteran of movies and television, usually immerses himself in whatever role he takes and this time is no different. He is magnificent. Because Tichina Arnold is primarily known for her comedic roles in such television fare as “Martin” and “Everybody Hates Chris,” her role as Lena Baker is riveting. Every time that she is on screen, she owns it. She has managed to create one of the most memorable characters in cinematic history, a woman that due to the conditions of her surroundings and the times in which she lived, was forced to compromise her religious teachings and upbringing, ultimately being forced into a situation that could only end tragically. Particularly effective is her first scene with Todd as mother and daughter are reunited after Lena’s first brush with the law. Arnold is equally impressive in the final confrontation between Baker and Arthur, as well as the emotionally-draining scenes of the preparation for Baker’s execution. A review of the film would not be complete without giving credit to cinematographer Michael Shawn Lewallen and composer Todd Cochran. Lewallen has given the film’s South Georgia location shots the “look” of a more expensive production and several scenes show the expanse of the rural south most effectively. Cochran deftly combines traditional hymns with subtle underscoring that never overpowers a scene, providing the perfect musical accompaniment to a film of such power. The film is headed for Cannes later this year and if there is any justice in this world, "The Lena Baker Story" should come back with a boatload of honors for the director/screenwriter, the producers, the unparalleled cast, and other contributors to this monumental cinematic achievement.