Green Book Film Review - An unlikely couple become true friends

Road trip drama with some humour based on a 1960's true story.

Tony Lip is an Italian-American 'wise-guy', who's struggling to provide for his family. There's an important scene at the beginning which demonstrates his racism. He gets an interview to be a driver, but also a driver who could deal with any problems.

Dr. Don Shirley is a black very well educated, very well-mannered, world class classical musician. He's living in isolation on the top floor of Carnegie Hall, he needs driving safely to a series of scheduled concerts in the very prejudice Deep South.

During the numerous journeys they refer to 'The Negro Motorist Green Book,' also known as 'The Negro Traveller's Green Book.' This was a guide for African-American travellers, which listed lodging, restaurants, and other businesses that would serve them. They begin to bond over an incident involving two racist cops, a pub beating, a homosexual scene and even something simple like eating fried chicken in Kentucky.

Don is a brilliant pianist, admired by white audiences, although otherwise he's still just another black man who cannot eat in 'white' restaurants or use the same 'white' bathrooms or try on a suit.

They learn more about each-other and also some deeper things about themselves. Don shows Tony how to live with self-control and dignity, Tony teaching Don how to open up and relax.

In conclusion this is a highly recommended instant classic about two unlikely people who find a connection and respect for each other.


9/10