“I had to step outside of myself and embrace racial and cultural nuances to tell the story, said the film’s director, who is white.Īccording to Sumpter (also a producer on the film), Tanne’s genuine vision for the film showed. Tanne says he did his research by combing through interviews, articles and videos of the Obamas for months as well as working to get the casting and cultural aspects just right. Parker Sawyers and Tika Sumpter attend the screening of 'Southside With You' hosted by Miramax, Roadside Attractions & IM Global with The Cinema Society at Landmark's Sunshine Cinema on Augin New York City. Sure, all while following the start of one of the most famous love stories as it unfolds through Chicago. And, of course hearing the likes of Janet Jackson (Rhythm Nation Era) and Al B. From the casting of Sawyers and Sumpter, to the excellent cinematography that made you feel like you were right there in the backseat of Barack’s beat-up car. “Southside With You” paints an authentic picture of two people who are just getting to know each other, and the often awkward, yet universal experiences that come with it. They end up going to see Spike Lee’s “Do The Right Thing” and share a kiss over Baskin-Robbins ice cream in Hyde Park. However, throughout the day as they go from an art exhibit to lunch at the park as well as a community meeting-debating everything from sitcoms and politics to ice cream versus pie -Michelle sees another side of Barack and realizes he is not “just another smooth talking brother”. 'How's it going to look if I start dating the first cute black guy who walks through the firm's doors? It would be tacky,' Michelle says. (L-R) Director Richard Tanne, actor/producer Tika Sumpter and actor Parker Sawyers discuss their film 'Southside with You,' inspired by Barack and Michelle Obama's first date at AOL HQ on Augin New York City. He wants her to see him as more than just a co-worker, but she doesn’t think that would be appropriate. Michelle worked as a full-time associate at a law firm, and Barack was a summer associate whom she was assigned to as a mentor. “Southside With You” is a vivid portrayal of the summer day in 1989 when a young Barack Obama (Parker Sawyers) tries hard to woo a reluctant Michelle Obama-then Michelle Robinson-on a daylong outing across Chicago, which she insists ‘is not a date’.

Southside with you cast