Review of Fruitvale Station (2013) by Dani P — 18 Dec 2013

As all films based on true facts, Fruitvale Station has some inaccuracies and one approach. In this case, Coogler made us some scenes to fill up some parts - which I don't think it's bad - and also treats Oscar Grant as the good guy and the officers as the bad guys.

I wasn't there and, apparently, a lot of witnesses had different views from the tragic scene at the station too, but Coogler opted to turn Grant a victim and the cops violent and racist people. What's missing on the script is a little bit more of his main character's past and the two cops side on the story.

The aftermath was practically unilateral, focusing only on the grief and sadness of Oscar's family and friends and letting aside what happened to the officers. They only got some explanation on the credits and it was too dry.

To sum up, Fruitvale Station has great performances and most of the script is well developed. I didn't see anything spectacular about Coogler's direction but for a first film he did a great job.

This movie is compelling, dramatic and touching. Just like the audience would expect Oscar Grant's last day to be told.