Made in 1964 by German born director Michael Roemer, Nothing But a Man has been widely acclaimed as one of the first and best of a new breed of films about and starring African Americans, but is one that few will have seen, or had the opportunity to see if you live in the UK.

In America's Deep South, hard-working but carefree young Duff (Ivan Dixon) finds himself attracted attracted to Josie (Abbey Lincoln) a young preacher's daughter for whom stability is more important than freedom. Against the odds and the wishes of her disapproving parents, the two find a middle ground and a relationship develops, but will the Josie's love be enough for Duff to change his ways?

The plot may hold few surprises, but the film remains striking for being one of the first American films to fashion a serious drama set in a black American community in which the clack characters are the stars rather than the supporting cast and issues of race are dealt with honestly and with understanding rather than sensationalism. A compelling and well made drama, the film is also of considerable interest as film history, offering early roles to actors Julius Harris, Mel Stewart and the wonderful Yaphet Kotto.

Nothing But a Man will be released on UK DVD on 8th September by Metrodome at the RRP of £15.99. No extras are listed as yet.