Directed by: Spike Lee

Rated: R

Runtime: 2:16

Every year, there is that one film that is released pre-awards season that critics just know is not only a piece of Oscar bait, but also a strong contender. Last year, it was “Get Out” (2017). This year, it’s “BlacKkKlansman”. (Side note: the two films are produced by the same genius filmmakers so, who’s surprised?)

Legendary director, Spike Lee, is the mastermind behind this film that is easily one of the year’s most memorable cinematic treasures. Adapted from the book written by Ron Stallworth, the film follows Ron (played by John David Washington), who is the first African-American detective at the Colorado Springs Police Department. It is the 1970s, and you can cut the racial tension in the town of Colorado Springs with a knife. Ron thinks up a plan to help show his fellow white police coworkers that he is capable of doing big things. 

Ron’s plan is to infiltrate the Ku Klux Klan and do so by having his white colleague, Flip (Adam Driver), pretend to be him. Ron answers the phone when the Klan calls, while Flip pretends to be him in person, which is a system that very shockingly works. Together, the pair of policemen make a fantastic duo as they try their very best to rid of the most extremist hate group America has ever known. 

Every component of this film is nothing short of spectacular. The casting could not be more perfect, with a strong leading performance from John David Washington, who makes the audience automatically fall in love with his character and his graceful goofiness. Supporting performances given by Adam Driver and Laura Harrier (who plays “Patrice”) are also ones to look for out for in this upcoming awards season. I strongly believe that all three of these actors have a solid shot at being nominated for the gold. Who knows? I could maybe even see a win in their future. 

Another element of the film that contributes to its incredibleness is its intriguing and intelligent story. The script is absolutely one of a kind, which is why the film itself is one of a kind. Political films are all the rage these days due to the current politics and related news stories that are always surrounding the world we live in. But “BlacKkKlansman” stands out from the rest of these political flicks because the film’s story manages to touch every single emotion of its audience members.

Yes, the tone of “BlacKkklansman” is obviously extremely upsetting and sadly relevant now more than ever. However, Spike Lee finds a way to shed more lightness than darkness into this film that would be seen to have a very solemn undertone. The film will still make you upset and at many times, outraged, but for the most part, the comedy is present for the majority of the film.

I would consider this movie more of a dark comedy or even a dramedy rather than a political drama. I think that in itself is just one thing that made the movie fascinating to watch because it felt more like an actual narrative than a news story or history lesson. It is safe to say that I was on the edge of my seat the whole time I was watching it. With almost everyone standing up for racial equality and representation not only in the Hollywood film industry, but also in the world, “BlacKkKlansman” is a film whose relevance is so important at a time like this which is why everyone should go see this story and allow themselves to be touched by its presence and significance. 

What will really resonate with audience members about the movie is that it is just as entertaining as it is inspiring, meaning audience members will not only thoroughly enjoy themselves in the theater, but also learn about an extraordinarily important true story that they probably have never even heard of before. The film is rated “R” mostly for offensive language and a few crude jokes, but all in all, the film would easily be appropriate for ages 15+, meaning it would be OK for parents to bring their teen children. 

In conclusion, I cannot praise this film and everything about it enough. Everyone should take advantage of the film still being in theaters and go see it right now because trust me, it is a force to be reckoned with and you do not want to miss it.