The Inspiring True Story Behind the Oscar-Winning Film Green Book
The critically acclaimed 2018 film Green Book tells the true story of Black pianist Dr. Don Shirley and his burly Italian-American driver and bodyguard Tony “Lip” Vallelonga as they embarked on a concert tour through the racially segregated Deep South in the 1960s. Directed by Peter Farrelly, the film won three Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. But what’s the full real-life story behind this heartwarming tale of friendship conquering prejudice? If you want to watch this movie to know the story, you can visit reel-best.com to watch the full movie.
Don Shirley – Child Prodigy Turned Accomplished Pianist
Don Shirley was born in 1927 in Pensacola, Florida. His parents were Jamaican immigrants who arrived in the United States via Ellis Island. A child prodigy, Shirley mastered piano, cello, and organ by the age of 9. Despite his abundant talent, he faced prejudice and rejection from conservatories due to his race. Undeterred, Shirley persevered and eventually became acclaimed as a versatile pianist and composer, fusing classical, jazz, and blues styles.
By the early 1960s, Shirley had earned doctorates in music, psychology, and liturgical arts. He had also released acclaimed albums like Don Shirley Trio and performed in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall. However, Shirley still faced discrimination due to segregation laws in the South, which is why his record label hired Tony Lip as his driver/assistant for his 1962 concert tour.
Tony “Lip” Vallelonga – Bouncer Turned Driver
Frank Anthony Vallelonga was born in 1930 in the Bronx, New York to Italian immigrant parents. Vallelonga picked up the nickname “Tony Lip” due to his gift of gab. Before working for Shirley, Tony Lip had a varied career – he was an Army veteran, a bouncer at the Copacabana nightclub, and even did some small acting roles.
However, Lip’s primary job was as a driver for local mobsters. When those connections landed him in prison for a short stint, he sought legitimate work. That’s when a record producer who knew Lip’s brother hired him to drive Dr. Shirley for his Southern tour. Despite initial tension, Lip and Shirley soon bonded over their love of music.
Green Book – Driving Through the Segregated South
They relied on the guide just as other Black travelers did during the Jim Crow era, as depicted in movies like green book.
On their tour, Shirley and Lip relied on the Green Book to find hotels and restaurants where Black patrons were welcome. However, they still faced abundant discrimination and danger, including being arrested in Shreveport, Louisiana simply for being together.
Despite clashes over Lip’s crass behavior, the two men developed a deep friendship and respect. Lip admired Shirley’s dignity and talent, while Shirley appreciated Lip’s generosity and resourcefulness. By the tour’s end, their bond helped them overcome racism and prejudice.
Lasting Friendship and Shared Legacy
After their 1962 tour, Don Shirley and Tony Lip Vallelonga remained close friends until their deaths in 2013 and 2013 respectively. Their families also maintained a relationship over the years.
Lip’s son Nick Vallelonga grew up knowing Shirley and hearing stories about the tour. In 2012, Nick approached producer Octavia Spencer about adapting his father’s tales into a screenplay, which eventually became the film Green Book.
While criticized by some for historical inaccuracies, Green Book brought this remarkable real-life friendship to the big screen. Viewers around the world were inspired by this humorous and touching story showcasing how compassion can overcome racial divides. Don Shirley and Tony Lip’s journey through the Jim Crow South remains a timeless reminder of the power of friendship.
