Netflix's new film 'Color Book' has been hailed as a 'breathtaking masterpiece' by critics, yet fans are frustrated that the streamer has not promoted it more. The film, which follows a single father and his son with Down's syndrome on a journey to a baseball game, is being called an instant classic.
Plot and Characters
The story centres on Lucky, a widower raising his son Mason, who has Down's syndrome. After the death of his wife, Lucky and Mason set off across Metro Atlanta to attend their first baseball game together. Their day-long adventure is plagued by Murphy's Law — car breakdowns, missed trains, and other setbacks that test their bond. Despite the obstacles, they press on, determined to reach the game.
The film offers an intimate portrayal of fatherhood and the realities of raising a child with Down's syndrome, highlighting the strength and resilience forged through their relationship.
Director's Journey
'Color Book' was written and directed by David Fortune, whose own story is closely tied to Netflix. He participated in the Netflix and Ghetto Film School Content Creator Programme, where his short film 'Us' (2022) became the foundation for his feature debut. Fortune was later selected for Film Independent's Amplifier Fellowship, another Netflix-backed programme for emerging filmmakers.
Over the following year, he developed the project, secured grants for a pitch video, and ultimately won the AT&T Untold Stories competition at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, which came with a $1 million prize and a year of mentorship. This culminated in the finished film 'Color Book'.
Critical Acclaim
The film has yet to accumulate enough reviews for a Rotten Tomatoes score, but the assessments it has garnered are overwhelmingly positive. One critic declared: 'David Fortune's Color Book is an intimate, breathtaking masterpiece. Anchored by phenomenal performances from William Catlett and Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, this soulful feature reminded me exactly why I love film.'
Another concurred: 'Netflix's new hidden gem Color Book is a heartbreaking, must-watch father-son drama. David Fortune's striking feature debut is a quiet, emotionally powerful masterpiece that deserves a top spot on your Netflix watchlist.'
A third critic wrote: 'It works on every level, and it's as uplifting as it is heartbreaking. Only time will tell for sure, but I believe David Fortune has made a classic–and possibly even a masterpiece.'
Viewer Reactions
Viewers who have already seen it have voiced frustration that Netflix has not done sufficient promotional work, suggesting it risks being buried in users' algorithms. One viewer encouraged others to 'take the time to sit down and watch' the production. Another admitted: 'The twist in the story left me on the edge of my seat. This is a family friendly film about making the best out of hard times and difficult situations. I will strongly recommend this movie to film lovers.'
'Color Book' is streaming now on Netflix.
