Just Mercy: Film Review

Synopsis

Just Mercy, based on a novel by the same name, tells the powerful true story of Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) and his time in Alabama in the 1980's. Founder of the organization The Equal Justice Initiative, Stevenson works to correct wrongful convictions for people on death row. This film focuses particularly on his relationship with death row inmate Walter McMillan (Jamie Foxx) and his search for justice.

Review

This film is very well written and acted. Michael B. Jordan, Oh My God, Michael B. Jordan better have an Oscar nomination coming his way. Jamie Foxx does good work, as well. I didn’t see the purpose of Brie Larson’s character aside from someone for white people to whom they can relate. Also, I must mention Tim Blake Nelson, who was perfectly cast in his role. When you see the picture of the person he plays, you will be like "Oh my God, it's the SAME person." The story did get a little repetitious in the third act (there were various courtroom scenes). I understand why they were there. I wouldn't have edited it out, but it did make the film feel its length a little. This film is so powerful, too. It tells a story that we know, but we know little about. There is a scene about midway through that is so powerful, it WILL draw you to tears. In fact, at the advance screening that I attended, it had the white people clapping at the screen during the credits. Now, that's power. This film should be a benchmark and jumping-off-point for a deeper conversation on the issue of wrongful conviction. 

There's not much else to say, except ... GO SEE IT! (when it is released to the public on Christmas Day in limited release and January 10th in wide release).