MovieChat Forums > Ransom! (1956) Discussion > Juano Hernandez

Juano Hernandez

posted 11 years ago by RigbyEleanor
3 replies | jump to latest

He did a great job playing uncle Jessie. Probably one of the better roles I've seen for a black male actor back then-with the exception of Sidney Poitier. Uncle Jessie was respected, strong, had integrity, and just a rock for the family. No cowardly step 'n fetch it.

He was in the other Glenn Ford movie that played on TCM before this one played tonight. I only saw the end of it but it was called the 'Trial' and in that one Hernandez was the judge. Though it was before my time, I recognize some Hollywood execs were doing their part to make way for civil rights, in some small way.

If Hernandez has any living descendants, you can be proud of him in this role.

[–] smrhyne-1 11 years ago

Hernandez brought dignity to every role that he played. He paved the way for Sidney Poitier and other Black actors who were yet to come. While his performance in "Ransom" is my favorite, I also love him in "Intruder In the Dust" (for which he received a Golden Globe nomination). He is also good in "Stars In My Crown", "The Reivers", "Young Man With a Horn" and "St Louis Blues"

[–] joeparkson 11 years ago

He was quite touching as the lonely old man who pawns his possessions as an excuse to maintain human contact with Rod Steiger in "The Pawnbroker".

Absurdity: A Statement or belief inconsistent with my opinion.

[–] boxerrebellion 8 years ago

I was more focused on the parents, but you are right... his dignity and integrity were integral to the character, and Juano Hernandez did it well.