Jasper Texas (2003)

Editor's Note This critically acclaimed made-for-cable film explores the aftermath of the one of the most horrifying crimes in recent American history. In 1998, the small town of Jasper, Texas, was witness to the brutal murder of James Byrd, Jr. (Roy T. Anderson), an African American man dragged to his death behind a pickup truck driven by three white racists. As news of the murder sends shock waves across the nation, Jasper finds itself the center of national attention and is converged upon by the media, FBI, Black Panthers, and even the KKK. Sheriff Billy Rowles (Jon Voight) and Jasper's first black mayor R.C. Horn (Louis Gossett, Jr.) struggle to maintain control of their town as stress from the murder--and the subsequent media frenzy--brings submerged racial tension to a boiling point. With brilliant lead performances from Voight and Gossett, this emotionally powerful film sheds light on one of most volatile chapters of American race relations.

	Cherion Drakes
	John Voight
	Louis Gossett Jr.
	Neil Crone
	Roy T. Anderson
	Samantha Bee
	Asche & Spencer - Musical Score
	Gavin Mitchell - Production Designer
	Jeff Byrd - Director
	Jeffrey Cooper - Editor
	Jonathan Estrin - Producer
	Jonathan Estrin - Writer