- Date of Release: 12 July 2021
- Genre: Drama, Historical
- Language: English
- Watch On: Amazon Prime Video
Judas and the black messiah
Introduction
A few months back during the Oscar Season I had pretty much watched the entire slate of films that were nominated. But there was this one film that I had then missed which was Judas And The Black Messiah. Now, it did have a theatrical release in India but due to the ongoing pandemic I chose not to venture out! And hence, the wait was long. Now, I have finally got a chance to watch it on Amazon Prime Video. Is it worth your time, stay tuned.
Story & Screenplay
Based on True Events, Judas And The Black Messiah follows the story of FBI infiltrating a man in the Black Panther Army against the backdrop of racism based on Colour. It was only recently that we witnessed a huge movement which soon turned out to be a global one, ‘Black Lives Matter’. It is not wrong to say that history indeed repeats itself. This is because humanity does not learn from its mistakes. It is so wrong if a person has to feel inferior just because of his skin colour. Why can’t we see each other as equal irrespective of caste, creed, colour or sex. And this is the very reason that the story is powerful and relevant even today. The screenplay unfolds at a leisurely pace. It doesn’t hurry, instead it allows you to settle into the drama that is simmering on low heat throughout. And because of this, you as a viewer are conflicted on what is right and what is wrong which means the narrative is balanced. You feel sorry for both the protagonists at any given point of time. This simmering tension culminates into a shocking finale that will leave you angry! The screenplay is quietly hard-hitting and punches you exactly where it hurts the most! Excellent writing!
Dialogues, Music & Direction
The dialogues are powerful and extremely well penned. The BGM definitely heightens the drama. Notice the minimal use of it which indeed does not overpower the drama in any way. Director Shaka King has done a terrific job. It is almost as if he feels the pain of both the protagonists which in turn makes for a terrific viewing.
Performances
The performances are excellent. All actors do a splendid job lead by the two terrific individuals. Daniel Kaluuya as Fred Hampton is in great form and his speeches are powerful that fill you up with a lot of energy. LaKeith Stanfield as Bill O’Neal is such a conflicted character that at times you feel sorry for him and also are angry on him. These are extreme and complex emotions that he brings to the table in a towering performance!
Conclusion
Judas And The Black Messiah is hard-hitting and groundbreaking! Available on Amazon Prime and Highly Recommended.