The 24th is a historical drama film that tells the story of the all-black Twenty-Fourth United States Infantry Regiment and the Houston Riot of 1917. The film is based on true events and explores the racial tensions and systematic discrimination that African American soldiers faced during World War I.
The film follows the story of William Boston, a young African American soldier who is part of the Twenty-Fourth Infantry Regiment. The regiment is stationed in Houston, Texas, where they face discrimination and segregation in every aspect of their lives, including housing, jobs, and public facilities.
The Houston Riot of 1917 was sparked by tensions between the African American soldiers and the local police department. After a brutal confrontation with the police, the Twenty-Fourth Infantry Regiment is blamed for the violence, and 19 African American soldiers are executed without trial.
The film explores the themes of racism, injustice, and the struggle for equality in a society that was deeply divided along racial lines. It also highlights the courage and resilience of the African American soldiers who fought for their country despite facing discrimination and segregation.
The 24th is directed by Kevin Willmott and stars Trai Byers, Aja Naomi King, Thomas Haden Church, and Mo McRae. It premiered at the 2019 South by Southwest Film Festival and was released in theaters and on demand on August 21, 2020.
