two theaters that picks up Sweetback, they first plan to show it between two other films as part of a triple-feature. Melvin, wanting to impress upon them the film's importance, wagers two tailored suits in order to get them to show the movie by itself. Although this move may be seen as one of either supreme confidence or supreme desperation, it pays off, as the film garners much more attendance and revenue for the owners than they previously had. Nia Long as Sandra, Melvin's girlfriend helps him manage his children throughout production. Although she has not grown up with such a clear view of the oppression faced by African-Americans of the time, she is still extremely supportive of Melvin's undertaking. Ossie Davis as Granddad, Albeit a gruff figure, he too helps Melvin take care of his children and also appears in minor role. Paul Rodriguez as Jose Garcia, Puerto Rican cameraman, Jose acts as a symbol of the unifying nature of not just the film, but its creation as well. Penny Bae Bridges as Megan Van Peebles, one of Melvin's children, acting in a minor role in the film. Rainn Wilson as Bill Harris, Melvin's friend who tries but fails to acquire financial backing for the film. Even though the film ends up being independently financed by Melvin himself, with the help of Bill Cosby, Bill stays on the crew to assist production. Saul Rubinek as Howie Kaufman, Melvin's agent, Howie pushes Melvin to sign a contract with Columbia Pictures. Although Melvin does not end up doing so, Howie helps Melvin post-production in finding distributors for the film. Although Howie is his agent, he is far from being solely after money, as evidenced by the close relationship he has with Melvin's kids. Terry Crews as "Big T", crew member that acts as sound assistant and security for the crew, Big T ends up being part of the group that is arrested by the cops for alleged theft. Although he almost leaves, threatening Melvin in the process, he is convinced to stay after an impassioned speech by Melvin that shows him the importance of the film to the community. T. K. Carter as Bill Cosby, while not delivering a major number of lines, ends up loaning Melvin $50,000 to finish production, with the only stipulation being that he gets his money back. His contribution brings yet more emphasis on the film's