Wow, I was not expecting that. Maybe the fact that it was a Netflix movie made me think it would be something different. But what a hard-hitting, emotionally affecting film. I was really impressed with the execution here. We hop from intimate moment to intimate moment, somehow effortlessly. It helps to paint a picture that is both micro and macro at the same time, exploring themes of hatred and oppression, hard life and commitment, racism and PTSD. All the characters in the movie have hard lives, and yet they can’t seem to understand that they’re not as different as they’re making themselves out to be. It can be quietly devastating at times, and full blown disturbing in others.

Watching this was like reading a novel. The collection of narrators gives a 360° view of the lives of two families in rural Mississippi during World War Two – One white family, one black family. The tension goes back centuries, and it’s heartbreaking to see the depths of racism that still existed during a time when the country should have been coming together. This obviously mirrors our current times. Progress has been made since then. But not nearly enough. Films like these tragically remind us of that.

Also of note are the performances by Carrie Mulligan, Garrett Hundland, Rob Morgan, and Mary J Blige. They help deliver a vibrant world, both in their voiceover narration and on-screen presence. They really make the script come to life.

I don’t think this movie will get the awards show attention it probably deserves. This is a great movie though, and worthy of consideration.

4.5 out of 5 stars