Sound. Vision. Possibility.
American Violet poster

FILM

American Violet (2008)

Film · 2008 · 103 min · PG-13 · Drama

A young single mother of four living in a small Texas town. Arrested during a drug raid and accused of a crime she didn't commit, Dee goes against the wishes of her mother, Alma, and rejects the plea-bargain that would free her from jail, but brand her as a felon for life. As word begins to spread that similar incidents are occurring in poor communities all across the country, Dee realizes that there are more mothers out there like her, and decides to take a stand against powerful district attorney Calvin Beckett. Now, despite being well aware of District Attorney Beckett's fierce reputation, Dee enlists the aid of ACLU attorney David Cohen and former narcotics officer Sam Conroy in overcoming the seemingly insurmountable obstacles that, if not navigated with the greatest of caution, now threaten to destroy her life. With the custody of her children on the line, one brave mother wages a valiant battle to strike at the very heart of the corrupt Texas justice system.

Directed by Tim Disney

Starring Nicole Beharie, Tim Blake Nelson, Will Patton, Michael O'Keefe, Malcolm Barrett, Xzibit, Charles S. Dutton, Alfre Woodard

When and where to watch in the United States

From TMDB release dates and JustWatch offers, as listed on 17 October 2026. Both change often; a missing date or offer means none is listed yet.

Release dates in the United States

In cinemas17 April 2009
Digital releaseNo date listed
Physical releaseNo date listed
Premiere or festival screening29 August 2008 · Telluride Film Festival
First cinema release anywhere28 August 2008 (Germany)

Dates come from TMDB and can change. The digital date is the first rental, purchase or streaming date and does not confirm a launch on a particular service; the physical date does not confirm a Blu-ray or 4K edition. Both are often added closer to release.

Release dates in 1 other country
CountryIn cinemas
Germany28 Aug 2008

Every release in the United States this month · digital · physical

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