The long-awaited film Judas and the Black Messiah, directed by Shaka King, was released last Friday, February 11. The movie was produced by King as well as Ryan Coogler and Charles King. The biopic follows the work of the Black Panther and civil rights leader Fred Hampton, played by Daniel Kaluuya, and the infiltration of the Black Panther Party by FBI informant William O’Neal, played by Lakieth Stanfield. Not only is the title itself iconic but the entire movie and production are as a whole. Let’s get into some of elements of the film that make it all worthwhile.
The title.
Judas and the Black messiah is a biblical allusion to Jesus and his apostle Judas who betrayed him to authorities leading to the crucifixion of Jesus. The title was a creative way to describe the relationship between Fred Hampton, the Black messiah, and William O’ Neal , the FBI informant who acted as a Black Panther which led to Hampton’s assassination. This makes the movie even more interesting; furthermore, adding more depth.
The Soundtrack. The movie soundtrack was one of the best parts of the film. Although the music wasn’t featured during the movie, it still played a role in telling the story. It features artists Jay Z, H.E.R, the late Nipsey Hussle, upcoming rapper Pooh Shiesty and more. This soundtrack was a definite hit.
Black love. Black love is presented in a beautiful way between Fred Hampton and his partner, Deborah Johnson. It showed the relationship between a two people in a revolution and what that meant for their life together. Both Johnson and Hampton had to sacrifice so much; however, they never stopped loving each other even until Hamptons assassination in 1969.
Cinematography. The cinematography of this film was superb because it depicted the life of Fred Hampton and William O’Neal on a multidimensional level. It displays the multiple angles of Fred Hampton’s contribution to the Black community, William O’Neal’s role in Hamptons assassination, O’Neal being coerced into being an informant and the role of the FBI in society. There is still so much more to be uncovered in the movie, and this is exactly why people should be witnessing this work of art!
The Message. There are a multitude of messages that can be taken from this film. The importance of Black filmmakers, the vulnerability of Black people and the allegiances that can be created in order to create change. Fred Hampton created what was called a rainbow coalition for the liberation of oppressed people. It is important to realize that Black filmmakers creating such films can uplift the Black community. It important to diversify the types of Black films being created.
Judas and the Black Messiah was definitely a fantastic movie. It is one that should be watched without distraction, with an open mind, and ready for all the twists and turns the movie has to offer. Aside from the movie being cinematically pleasing, it is important to realize these are real events and real people. This is a movie for the film critics, film lovers, and the revolutionaries. This is a movie for all generations, and those ready to listen. It can’t be taken lightly and should be watched by all.