Tragic story. Brilliant film.

It comes with award-worthy written all over. Perhaps that’s not the single most reason to bring this true story to mainstream cinema. The more important context is to bring to light, one of the most pertinent pieces of history. One of a probably lesser told yet relevant story that unarguably catapulted the American civil rights movement. On the Academy front, it is most certainly in the frontline for several nominations, and wishfully a win in at least two.

The story and the plots strictly adhere to the factual boundaries. In the crux is the relentless pursuits of a heartbroken and grieving mother to cope with her loss; to fight for justice; and to find closure within acceptable realms.

It may very well end up with nominations in four areas that are the cornerstones of the film. The trio of writers have stitched together a gripping narration with stellar screenplay. Chinonye Chukwu, at the helm of direction has left no stone unturned in her quest to present a compelling film. Jaylyn Hall as Emmett Till has effortlessly essayed an endearing role. The scene in which he reiterates his penchant for wallets is simply moving. Last but not the least, Danielle Deadwyler as Mamie Till, the resolute grieving mother, steals the show. The writing augments a deeply complex character that has to often sway between two different ends of an emotional arc. Steadfast and unwavering in public. Shattered and crumbling in private.

So compelling is the narration that you may not feel that you are separated from it via a layer or medium called film. I walked away with a sense that I was treading along in-person, with an intensely loving and grieving mother, through her heart wrenching journey. Very few films manage to have such a stirring impact.

We may not know the story till we see the film. We may not comprehend the gravity of the grief till we understand the relevance. We may not align with the sense of purpose till we feel the connection. There couldn’t be a better time than now, for both relevance and connection to converge.

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