A powerful, depressing and scary look at racist culture in America.
Ron Stallworth, an African-American police officer from Colorado, successfully managed to infiltrate the local Ku Klux Klan and became the head of the local chapter.
Director Spike Lee has always delivered unique and clever films, but this could land him his first Academy Award. The cinematography, editing and sound design are superb. The film instantly captures your attention and manages to maintain its momentum throughout the 135 minute run time.
The performances are excellent; this is a career defining performance for Adam Driver and Topher Grace also delivers his best performance in years. Relative newcomer John David Washington is the standout though and I look forward to seeing what he does next - his command of the screen, especially amongst such accomplished performers is remarkable. Laura Harrier and Jasper Pääkönen also offer amazing performances.
Overall this is a powerful film, with an all too important and relevant message. A must see.
5 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay
Screening courtesy of Universal Entertainment