by Hal Erickson
synopsis
Based on a true story, The House Divided: Denmark Vessey's Rebellion was filmed where it happened, in Charleston South Carolina. Yaphet Kotto plays Vessey, a former slave who has bought his freedom and is working as a carpenter. In 1822, Vessey organizes a slave rebellion in Charleston. Planning to hijack a ship and sail for Santo Domingo, he is fully aware that blood will be shed, but he and his followers are willing to die on their feet rather than live on their knees. The powerful supporting cast includes Bernie Casey, Ned Beatty, Brock Peters, William Windom, Cleavon Little, Mary Alice and James Bone III. Sometimes listed as a 1970 production, A House Divided actually premiered February 17, 1982, as a 90-minute PBS television special.
