Review of Mississippi Burning (1988) by James M — 29 Nov 2009
Although some of the events are based on the true story of three civil rights activists murdered by the Ku Klux Klan in the 1960's Philadelphia, this movie centres on the relationship between two FBI agents, Willem Dafoe's blue-collar, strictly-by-the-book embodiment, and Gene Hackman's ex-Mississippi sherriff, happy to tear up the rule book to admonish his own brand of justice.
Both are very good in their performances, but the best performance is Frances McDormand, the wife of a racist police officer turning a blind eye to the criminal events in her town. Peter Biziou's photography won an Oscar, and the movie was nominated for 6 more, including Best Picture, Director, Actor & Supporting Actress.
It's unfortunate that it didn't win more.
This review of Mississippi Burning (1988) was written by James M on 29 Nov 2009.
Mississippi Burning has generally received very positive reviews.
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