Every year EMU selects an engaging “common” read and movie that brings together individuals from all across campus.
This year was no exception, with the book and film “Just Mercy” as this school year’s common read and motion picture.
October is such a busy time during the school year, so it was refreshing to be able to relax, sit down, and enjoy this year’s feature film. From the moment I began the movie, I was intrigued, particularly by the fact that the film is based
on a true story. (Disclaimer: I will be including some spoilers in this review for those who have not yet seen the movie!)
The fundamental parts of any film are the quality of the actors portraying the characters and the overall message it sends to the viewers. The main character, Bryan Stevenson, is played by Michael B. Jordan. Bryan Stevenson is an up-and-coming lawyer and recent graduate of Harvard Law School. Bryan establishes an organization called the Equal Justice Initiative, seeking to give representation to individuals accused or given callous sentences.
I personally find his character to be an inspiration because of the dedication he has to his job.
Despite all the injustice and brokenness that plagues the criminal justice system, he continues to have so much optimism.
However, through all that positive demeanor the viewers do get to see an unrestrained side to Bryan.
After seeing the execution of a death row inmate named Herbert Richardson, who he had developed a friendship with, Bryan has an overwhelming wave of emotions.
The film’s showing of the reality of people being mistreated within the criminal justice system every day is very real, and viewers getting to see the raw emotions of those trying to fight this brutal system is powerful.
Michael B. Jordan’s passion for highlighting very important issues especially in the context of The other main character, Walter McMillian, is played by Jamie Fox. Walter McMillian is a man accused of murdering an 18 year old store clerk in Monroeville, Alabama. Walter is on death row for the murder when Bryan Stevenson and his team from the Equal Justice Initiative step in to give him fair representation.
Playing the role of a man so vilified by an entire community has to be a heavy burden, but Jamie Fox perseveres and gives an epic performance. I would highly recommend this movie to anyone not only for the superior acting, but what I define as the overall message of the movie: We as individuals have a personal responsibility to our fellow humans to hold institutions accountable and build more equitable systems.
