Review of Free State of Jones (2016) by Hermann M — 04 Jul 2016

An excellent historical piece that sheds light on a seemingly Southern Unionist movement. However well acted and directed, the film offers little in terms of entertainment value. Instead, its war scenes depict the cold, lonely, and harsh realities of fighting for a cause in whose principle tenants you do not believe.

This was the case for Confederate soldiers who, by choice or circumstance, did not own slaves. The film offers a poignant rationale for desertion. The unique plight of Confederate women is also developed.

The true value of FSJ is in the way it positions race along a class continuum. Confederate Army quartermasters relegating Southern white farmers to the level of rightless subjects turns the slave issue on its head.

A must see!