A Night in Batesburg

Based on a true story
by Laura Williams
  • EXECUTIVE PRODUCER : Clifton Truman Daniel

Captivating the Power of History: Unleashing the Untold Story of Sgt. Isaac Woodard and how a WWII Hero’s Tragic Homecoming Changed American History.

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Veteran and Hero

About the Film

A Night in Batesburg©: The Untold Story of Sgt. Isaac Woodard

Before the names of Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X became synonymous with the civil rights movement, a significant but untold event occurred that would forever alter American history.

A Night in Batesburg© is poised to become a gripping cinematic experience or compelling true crime television series chronicling the events of a fateful night in Batesburg, South Carolina in 1946.

A historical drama that unveils the tragic story of Sgt. Isaac Woodard, a decorated WWII hero, whose homecoming resulted in a brutal attack by police igniting national outrage. It delves into Woodard’s struggles and the onset of the Civil Rights movement including the involvement of Orson Welles, Judge J. Waties Waring and President Harry S. Truman who integrated the U.S. Armed Forces on Woodard’s behalf.

Written with historical accuracy and emotional depth, A Night in Batesburg© ensures to be a compelling and gripping narrative that will engage audiences for years to come.

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A NIGHT IN BATESBURG©

The True Story

Sgt. Isaac Woodard's Tragic Homecoming
Sgt. Isaac Woodard, a decorated African-American WWII veteran, was brutally attacked by South Carolina police in 1946, leaving him blind. The incident, publicized by the NAACP, caused national outrage and became a catalyst for the civil rights movement. Learn about the significant figures and events that shaped this pivotal moment in history.
Julius Waites Waring
Judge Julius Waites Waring was a federal judge who became a significant figure in civil rights following the 1946 case of Isaac Woodard, a WWII veteran brutally beaten and blinded by a South Carolina police officer. The officer's acquittal by an all-white jury deeply affected Waring, leading him to focus on civil rights cases and challenge racial segregation, including his pivotal dissent in Briggs v. Elliott, a precursor to the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case.
PRESIDENT TRUMAN
President Harry S. Truman, deeply affected by the tragic experience of Sgt. Woodard, took bold steps by establishing the inaugural Coalition on Civil Rights. This initiative led to the historic issuance of Executive Order #9981, which facilitated the integration of the U.S. Armed Forces. This groundbreaking moment marked a significant turning point that permanently changed the course of civil rights in the United States.
Orson Welles
Orson Welles (1915-1985) was a distinguished American actor, director, writer, and producer who played a pivotal role in both theater and cinema during the 20th century. Welles was known for his willingness to challenge boundaries and provoke thought, which sometimes led to controversy and backlash. However, what many do not realize is Welles' pivotal role in the Isaac Woodard case. Despite the risks to his career, Welles fearlessly fought for justice for Sergeant Woodard, showcasing his unwavering commitment to social justice and equality.
NAACP

Isaac Woodard, a decorated African-American WWII veteran, was brutally attacked by South Carolina police in 1946, leaving him blind.

The incident, publicized by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), caused national outrage. Despite legal efforts, the officer was acquitted. However, the case catalyzed the civil rights movement, leading President Truman to establish the President's Committee on Civil Rights and inspiring significant changes in law enforcement practices.

Impact and Legacy

Sergeant Woodard's story captured the world’s attention, shedding light on the systemic racial inequalities prevalent in the Jim Crow South. His courageous fight served as a catalyst for widespread activism, sparking crucial progress in the civil rights movement. The rallying cry for change brought together influential figures from the entertainment industry, including legends like Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Cab Calloway, Pearl Bailey, Woody Guthrie and renowned boxer Joe Louis, all uniting in solidarity for justice and equality.

Box Office Comparison

Analyzing Financial Success of Comparable Films

Explore the financial performance of notable films to understand the market potential of “A Night in Batesburg©” By examining the budget and box office revenue of successful movies, we can highlight the profitability and commercial appeal of historical and culturally significant films.

Box Office
$66.8M

Budget: $20M

Box Office
$236M

Budget: $25M

Box Office
$97.5M

Budget: $40M

Box Office
$176.6M

Budget: $30M

Box Office
$216.6M

Budget: $25M

Box Office
$73.3M

Budget: $25M

CAST AND CREW

Our Professional Team

Laura Williams

SCREENWRITER

Laura Williams … serving as executive producer, as the niece of Sergeant Isaac Woodard, offers a distinct and genuine viewpoint in the historical biopic “A Night in Batesburg©.” Serving as an Executive Producer and featured in “American: An Odyssey to 1947,” she has narrated her uncle’s tale on CBS Inside Edition and PBS American Experience: The Blinding of Isaac Woodard. Drawing on her experience in corporate investigations, extensive research, and personal narratives, Laura has artfully reconstructed a captivating storyline that will connect with a broad range of viewers.

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Clifton Truman Daniel

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

Clifton Truman Daniel, the oldest grandson of President Harry S. Truman, has teamed up with Laura, providing a distinct historical perspective from his family lineage and a strong sense of authenticity to the project. Clifton is a skilled actor who often portrays his renowned grandfather. He has showcased his talent in numerous productions. taking on roles such as Ensign Pulver in “Mr. Roberts, Mortimer in ‘Arsenic and Old Lace,” and featured in ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, “Amadeus,” “Matlock,” and “Touched by an Angel.” Furthermore, Mr. Daniel holds the honorary position of Chairman of the Board at the Truman Library Institute and serves as the Board Secretary of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation.
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Moving Forward:

Investing in a Legacy

Join us in bringing this powerful story to life.

A Night in Batesburg© is not merely a film; it is an immersive experience that elevates the untold stories of heroes like Sgt. Isaac Woodard. By investing in this groundbreaking project, you become part of a historic moment, capturing the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide.

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CONTACT US

Get in Touch with Us

Whether you have questions, need more information, or are ready to become a part of this monumental project, we are here to connect with you. A Night in Batesburg© is a collaborative effort, and your support and engagement are crucial to bringing this story to the world. Our team is dedicated to providing all the information you need and addressing any queries you might have. Don’t hesitate to reach out—together, we can make history.

Phone

(856) 295-1665

Email

[email protected]

Website

www.anightinBatesburg.com

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A Night in Batesburg© tells the powerful story of Sgt. Isaac Woodard, an unsung hero whose legacy deserves recognition. Join us in bringing this crucial piece of history to life.

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