Mack Stiles

“Just Mercy” is a compelling story directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, based on the career of Bryan Stevenson. The film follows Stevenson, played by Michael B. Jordan, as he navigates the broken criminal justice system to defend wrongly convicted death row inmates, with a focus on Walter “Jonnie D” McMillian, portrayed by Jamie Foxx. Some major themes that are seen throughout this story include poverty, systemic racism, inequality, and the pursuit of justice for those who have been wronged.

Recurring signs and symbols in “Just Mercy” support its powerful themes. One example of a symbol in the film is the use of bars. Many scenes in the film include the use of prison bars to not only physically show the barriers between people but to also show the separation between the oppressor and the oppressed. The film critiques race and socioeconomic status by depicting the dehumanizing effects of biases on marginalized communities. It shares a story of a “them VS us” mentality between people of opposing classes and races. Although allies among the opposing groups, most of the story is about those of a lower class having to fight the inequalities and injustices brought to them by those who contain both class privilege and racial privilege.

Visual cues in the film, such as intimate close-ups during emotional moments, convey the characters’ vulnerability and the gravity of their situations. One example is watching Herb’s face as he is about to be executed. The lighting is dark and intense, and the close-up allows the viewer to see how he’s feeling, feel how he’s feeling. The lighting emphasizes the extreme contrast between the harsh realities of the legal system and the pursuit of justice. In the film, female characters possess both strength and resilience, challenging traditional gender roles. Characters such as Eva and Minnie are strong and outspoken. They aren’t afraid to say what is on their mind and stand up against men of a higher authority. The film works against the usual assumption about women’s roles at the time, portraying them as important players in the fight against injustice.

Destin Daniel Cretton’s intention in making “Just Mercy” was to shed light on the systemic issues within the criminal justice system. The film serves as a point to culture, prompting reflection on race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality. It emphasizes the urgent need for reform and challenges viewers to confront their own biases. In comparison to other films, “Just Mercy” stands out for its raw portrayal of the true story it is trying to share. The acting was done incredibly well, to move you as you think of the real-life scenario this film is depicting.

“Just Mercy” (2019), directed by Destin Daniel Cretton.