Cast and Crew of The Birth of a Nation

The Birth of a Nation

"The Birth of a Nation" centers on Nat Turner, portrayed as a determined former slave who catalyzes a bold liberation uprising in 1831 Virginia. Through the eyes of characters such as Bridget Turner, brought to life by Esther Scott, and Hark, played by Colman Domingo, the film explores intense moments of courage and struggle amidst the brutal realities of slavery. The narrative follows Nat Turner's growth from a man seeking spiritual awakening to a revolutionary leader spearheading a fight for freedom that shakes the societal status quo.

At its core, the film grapples with themes of resistance, faith, and the quest for justice in the face of overwhelming oppression. It delves into the moral complexities and the human cost of rebellion, highlighting how the fight for liberation is fraught with sacrifice and painful choices. Beyond recounting a historical event, "The Birth of a Nation" provokes reflection on the enduring legacy of systemic racism and the profound resilience of those who dare to challenge it.

Upon release, the film garnered significant attention for its raw portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history, sparking conversations about the representation of Black history in cinema. Its powerful storytelling and evocative performances left a lasting impact on pop culture by inspiring a new generation to confront uncomfortable truths about the past and to recognize the continuing struggle for racial equality. The movie stands as a testament to the power of cinema to illuminate hidden narratives and fuel social dialogue.

Full Cast of The Birth of a Nation

Gabrielle Union as Esther

Gabrielle Union

Esther
Penelope Ann Miller as Elizabeth Turner

Penelope Ann Miller

Elizabeth Turner
Brad Schmidt as Lieutenant Akers

Brad Schmidt

Lieutenant Akers
Colman Domingo as Hark

Colman Domingo

Hark
Mark Boone Junior as Reverend Zalthall

Mark Boone Junior

Reverend Zalthall
Dane Davenport as John Clarke Turner

Dane Davenport

John Clarke Turner
Armie Hammer as Samuel Turner

Armie Hammer

Samuel Turner
Jackie Earle Haley as Raymond Cobb

Jackie Earle Haley

Raymond Cobb
Chiké Okonkwo as Will

Chiké Okonkwo

Will
Dominic Bogart as Hank Fowler

Dominic Bogart

Hank Fowler
Aja Naomi King as Cherry

Aja Naomi King

Cherry
Jayson Warner Smith as Earl Fowler

Jayson Warner Smith

Earl Fowler
Jeryl Prescott as Janice

Jeryl Prescott

Janice
Steve Coulter as General Childs

Steve Coulter

General Childs
Jason Stuart as Joseph Randall

Jason Stuart

Joseph Randall
Esther Scott as Bridget Turner

Esther Scott

Bridget Turner

Crew of The Birth of a Nation

Full backstage crew list →