Enslavement: The True Life Story Of Fanny Kemble

Fanny Kemble was the superstar of her day, a celebrated actress, poet and musician from one of the best-known families in England. She hobnobbed with royalty and was afforded all the privilege of a 19th century lady. Yet the very hands that touch those of the Queen's would soon be scrubbing the filthy living quarters of slaves.

While performing in a play and living in Philadelphia, Fanny (JANE SEYMOUR) meets Pierce Butler (KEITH CARRADINE), an ardent admirer and wealthy lawyer on the verge of inheriting a fortune and a Georgia plantation. Impressed more by his manners than his money, Fanny courts the smooth-talking young man, but is reluctant to marry into a family that owns slaves. Pierce, however, makes it all seem pleasant and practical. Their romance ensues and results in her retirement from the stage and their marriage. Pierce moves Fanny to his country estate, but Fanny isn't prepared for the solitude and boredom of country life.

The first skirmish in what becomes the couple's fierce battle of wills is sparked by the publication of Fanny's journal, which creates controversy and gossip in their social and business circles. Pierce is publicly ridiculed. Seeking to rebuild their damaged relationship, the couple has two children, providing them with a few years of peace and tranquillity, before the storm.

Clouds begin to form when Fanny suggests a move to Georgia. It is a decision that will devastate their marriage and ultimately affect the course of history.

Arriving on her husband's plantation, Fanny is shocked by her first witness of slavery. Much to the opposition of her husband, Fanny becomes determined to improve the slaves living conditions and befriends them on an individual level. However, her compassion is initially distrusted by some, including Joe, an outspoken slave wary of potential repercussions, such as the one inflicted on Harriet, whom Fanny tried to help.

While seeking medical attention for Harriet, Fanny meets and forms a bond with Dr. Huston (JAMES KEACH), who reveal that he's part of the Underground Railroad and invites Fanny to join the effort. Fanny agrees and with Huston's help, arranges for Joe and several others to escape through the Underground Railroad. This is the final straw for Pierce. He takes vengeance on a slave, and lashes Fanny for intervening. Stunned by his uncontrolled reaction to her defiance, Pierce loses heart. He realizes he is a man of his era married to a woman out of hers.