As many historic events have put into the big screen before, one always wonders if the representation being displayed will be accurate, as Hollywood is known for whitewashing and even exaggerating situations that might have not happened the way it is shown. But the film Judas and the Black Messiah puts to rest and shoots down this feeling of mischaracterization that we sometimes feel.
Written and directed by Shaka King, a newcomer into filmmaking, his reputation lies in his previous, not so known but well received, short films and contribution on television; King makes the leap of faith and takes this piece of African American history and polishes it on his own way while maintaining credibility and entertainment.
Carrying the film on their shoulders, we find the actors Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield, delivering outstanding performances like never before seen in their careers. Kaluuya, brings to life Fred Hampton, the leader of the Black Panther organization formed in Chicago in the late 60’s, and Stanfield playing William “Bill” O’ Neal, a man that due to his illegal line of work eventually clashes with the FBI, is given the opportunity to avoid time in prison in return of becoming an informer inside the Black Panther Party.
With a rich cinematography and costume design on point that embraces the style of that decade, Judas and the Black Messiah not only it sits you down and gives you a lesson, but it makes you believe in hope, at the same time showing you one of many examples of society’s most hateful periods of time against the black community; It trusts the audience, to not just make a judgment, but to understand the characters’ motivations and decisions throughout those difficult times. It is safe to say, at this point, that it is a strong contestant at the Oscars, earning its place, thanks to the distinct visual approach, captivating narrative and especially real characters, one can only wonder with enthusiasm now, what will be the director’s Chaka King’s next story.
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