IMDb 5.7 1981 HD

Carbon Copy

Carbon Copy

1981
Comedy Drama
92 min PG USA
5.831 / 10
5.7 IMDB

A middle-aged married wealthy white corporate executive is surprised to discover that he has a working-class black teen-age son who wants to be adopted into the almost-exclusively-white upper-middle-class…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Michael Schultz
Starring
Denzel Washington / George Segal / Susan Saint James / Jack Warden / Paul Winfield / Macon McCalman / Vicky Dawson / Parley Baer

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

thought-provoking dated charming uneven insightful dramatic comedic surprising poignant compelling

Reviews

C
Chloe Davies
May 23, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

In 'Carbon Copy,' George Segal portrays a man thrust into an unforeseen paternity, challenged by the ambition of his teenage son, a role brought to life by a captivating Denzel Washington. The film’s strength lies in its willingness…

L
Liam O'Connell
May 23, 2026
2.5 / 5
2.5

While the concept of 'Carbon Copy' – a white executive finding his Black teenage son – holds promise, the execution feels somewhat dated. George Segal does his best with a character who often appears more reactive than proactive.…

I
Isabelle Dubois
May 23, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

'Carbon Copy' presents a fascinating social experiment within its narrative framework. George Segal embodies the corporate man whose carefully constructed existence is shattered by the appearance of his son, played with remarkable maturity by Denzel Washington. The film’s…

M
Marcus Bellwether
May 23, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

The premise of 'Carbon Copy' is undeniably intriguing: a wealthy white executive discovers he has a Black teenage son eager to join his exclusive world. George Segal plays the bewildered father with his characteristic charm, while Denzel Washington…

E
Eleanor Vance
May 23, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

George Segal anchors 'Carbon Copy' as a man whose ordered life is upended by the arrival of a son he never knew. Denzel Washington, in an early significant role, brings a compelling mix of youthful assertiveness and vulnerability…

FAQs

'Carbon Copy' explores themes of identity, belonging, and the rigidity of social structures. It examines how class and race intersect, and the challenges individuals face when attempting to bridge disparate worlds. The film also touches upon the complexities of fatherhood, forgiveness, and the potential for change within established societal norms.