Production: Solid script, realistic but kind of preachy. Also some plot holes and questionable story choices. It is difficult to write in depth with systematic racism and police brutality, in a filmatic experience, that being said, solid writing. Decent sets, good enough to make the film believable. Solid editing, I wished they put subtitles on the Spanish speaking parts. 6/10. On screen: Good acting from Nate Parker, solid acting from the rest of the cast. At times, there were questionable decisions made by the actors, but I believe this is because of the writing. Some of the other actors' performances were either over the top or underperforming which is unbelievable. Solid cinematography. 6/10. Content/Impact: This is the dialog that is needed to talk about police brutality, mass incarceration, and racism. It's sad that movies like this one and others need to be made to show to racist, especially ones with power, that we black people are human beings and that we deserve equality. Also, the powerful statement at the end of the film about mass media and their carelessness of black lives. I am glad that Nate Parker is still able to make films, because between this and his debut film Birth of a Nation this is a director that has something to say about society and I'm all ears. Lastly, this will create space for other directors of color to be able to create more "radical" films meaning films that make a statement about society and how black and brown people are treated in it. 10/10. Overall: Pretty good film with a fantastic message about racism in America. 7.3/10.

Actor Nate Parker dabbles as a newb filmmaker writing and directing this story, as well as starring in it. It wasn't by any means a top-tier production, but considering he wore many hats with this film, it was still a pleasant viewing experience. His inexperience in directing was a little evident, and his screenplay certainly needed some tweaks, scenes cut shorter, and the pace picked up. But I really liked the format on how he decided to tell the story. The 89 min runtime felt a little longer with the slow pacing, too much preaching, and lots of filler. It could've used more substance, more drama or conflict. Nevertheless, it was very powerful, especially the very end when the news outlets tell their story... literally nailed it. The critics went really hard on this one, nitpicking it too much. Was it a great production? Not even close. Does it need to be seen? Absolutely, and it will still entertain. A solid 7/10 from me.