9 / 10
An important lesson in Chicago History that you would not find in the classroom.
Wow, I feel like I knew absolutely nothing about the Black Panther movement. Outside of cool berets, sunglasses, and leather jackets standing in front of government buildings, the education system failed me. Admittedly while it is not fact for fact, the story serves a poignant message that sticks with you.
I am so glad that more black history films are finally getting appropriate attention from filmmakers and audiences. These are the important messages to share, especially since much of black history has been silenced or altered to fit a different narrative throughout time.
Even though he was only twenty years old, Fred Hampton led such a heroic and inspiring life. He was an American activist centralized in Chicago and most widely known as the deputy chairman of the national Black Panther Party (BPP). During his service, Hampton led a social movement in Chicago to end gang violence and work for social change by founding the Rainbow Coalition. Some could consider him as significant of a public figure as Doctor King.
Without giving anything away, the title of the film was inspired by a quote from the former FBI director J. Edgar Hoover where he stated that they "must prevent the rise of Black Messiahs". Chilling.
You may recognize both of the leads from Jordan Peele’s hit blockbuster, Get Out. Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield are absolutely fantastic actors, and rising stars in the film industry. In fact - the entire cast is phenomenal and worth noting, but you can see for yourself.
/ tl;dr /
Was it good? - Yeah, it was great and also had an important message.
Date flick? - Hey, it's no rom-com, but it's absolutely worth watching!
