Judas and the Black Messiah

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⭐ 9.0/10

(Originally written by Tim)

From the moment I saw this trailer I knew I would like this movie, not to mention that it stars Lakeith Stanfield, Daniel Kaluuya and Jesse Plemons. Count me in!

This movie has a pretty tried and true strategy. It is basically a biopic, but told from the viewpoint of a mole in the black panther party, so kind of like The Departed. It is intense, suspenseful, and even gives you a bit of a history lesson. I was aware of the black panther party, but I was not aware of everything they did in their communities. I have also had a hard time empathizing with violent resistances, but seeing this story from this angle helped me see a bit outside of my own experiences.

Kaluuya is the real star here, and his charisma is magnetic, but I think seeing the story through the eyes of the traitor is what makes this movie special. When all the pieces fall into place it really kicks you in the gut, in the best way possible of course. It's only February, but I think this could be one of the best of the year.


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