BlacKkKlansman tells the inspired by story of Ron Stallworth (John David Washington) a black cop in Colorado during the 60s. He decides, on a whim, to infiltrate the KKK after reading a newspaper add. Being a black KKK candidate obviously has some challenges, so he gets the help of Flip Zimmerman (Adam Driver) to act as "Ron" for the face to face meetings.
Ron is able to not only join, but become a pretty central figure in the local chapter. Ron is also able to have multiple conversations with David Duke, who can tell Ron is white because of the way he speaks.
In the movie, Ron develops a relationship with BSU leader Patrice Dumas (Laura Harrier) and also thwarts a bombing attempt by the KKK at Patrice's house. He was also able to identify two NORAD employees that were part of the Klan.
The movie is good, but uneven, especially when Spike Lee gets heavy handed on things. I do have some bias in that I read the book first and thought the book was way better, more comedic, and less heavy handed with the race issues. I think telling a story in a more neutral way and having the reader come to the conclusion serves better than getting told it over and over. That said, it's the prerogative of the director to direct the movie how he likes and it's my prerogative to have an opinion on it.
When the movie is funny, it's funny though, and John David Washington as well as Adam Driver give great performances. Alec Baldwin gives a performance at the beginning which is short but also great. It reminds me of his small scene in Glengary Glen Ross -- small but powerful.
6/10 with a recommendation that you read the book as well.
Ron is able to not only join, but become a pretty central figure in the local chapter. Ron is also able to have multiple conversations with David Duke, who can tell Ron is white because of the way he speaks.
In the movie, Ron develops a relationship with BSU leader Patrice Dumas (Laura Harrier) and also thwarts a bombing attempt by the KKK at Patrice's house. He was also able to identify two NORAD employees that were part of the Klan.
The movie is good, but uneven, especially when Spike Lee gets heavy handed on things. I do have some bias in that I read the book first and thought the book was way better, more comedic, and less heavy handed with the race issues. I think telling a story in a more neutral way and having the reader come to the conclusion serves better than getting told it over and over. That said, it's the prerogative of the director to direct the movie how he likes and it's my prerogative to have an opinion on it.
When the movie is funny, it's funny though, and John David Washington as well as Adam Driver give great performances. Alec Baldwin gives a performance at the beginning which is short but also great. It reminds me of his small scene in Glengary Glen Ross -- small but powerful.
6/10 with a recommendation that you read the book as well.
