The film is based on the true story of a car thief who is blackmailed into helping the FBI infiltrate the Black Panther Party and spy on its leader Fred Hampton in the 1960s.
Acting
Superb performances by all cast members bring this film to life. Particularly the two leads – Daniel Kaluuya and Lakeith Stanfield.
9 out of 10 for acting.
Plot/Script
This is an intense and emotional story well told with some gripping and at times harrowing scenes. .
8 out of 10 for story
Cinematography
Superbly filmed with well set up and constructed shots that give this film an almost documentary feel.
8 out of 10 for cinematography
Set/Costumes
Every detail from clothing, to set dressing and streetscapes were meticulously created.
8 out of 10 for sets and costumes
Entertainment
This film has some very disturbing and at times violent scenes, but it is one I highly recommend – trust me you will have a visceral reaction to it…
8 out of 10 for entertainment value
Average
Adding all those scores means Cousins gets an average of 8.2 out of ten
JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH
Starring: Daniel Kaluuya, Lakeith Stanfield, Jesse Plemons, Dominique Fishback, Martin Sheen
Directed by: Shaka King
Duration: 126 minutes
In New Zealand Cinemas 11th March 2021