Review of The Birth of a Nation (2016) by Russell M — 21 Oct 2016

This is probably the most underrated movie out now. Of the other recent antebellum movies of this genre, this is probably my favorite. It conveys the brutality of the time, but shows more restraint as far as intensely graphic scenes.

The Turners who own Nat, though they allow and even participate in the cruelty of the horrific system, are humanized; clearly conflicted and even compassionate in some instances, yet heartlessly and tragically indifferent when their compassion is needed the most.

The roles of other slave characters are also complex in this story in that though are unhappy being slaves, they must make the difficult decision of whether to rebel or merely survive. Laced, with impressive cinematography, and symbolic imagery, it ends with thematic and memorable shot that ties the film back to its title, proving it to be more than just a jab at DW Griffith's grotesque 1918 film.

Of Nate Parker's, writing, directing and acting jobs, his acting his probably his weakest in this film. This is ironic because the other characters are superbly casted. I would put it on my shortlist for best picture, though sadly it looks like it may die at the box office.