This film really surprised me in so many ways.
Firstly, it covers topics that are only very topical and highly debated, but in some circles are taboo. So this for me was a very brave choice of story to go for.
But as the film went on, it was more than just social commentary on race, there was also perception, the power of lying.
I really liked the cat-and-mouse element that are characters were playing, and it also tries to fool the viewer. There are definitely times in the film where you have no idea who is telling the truth.
By the end I was seeing similar themes from films such as 'Disconnect', the revenge element of 'Nocturnal Animals' and the mind games of 'Gone Girl'.
The performances on the whole were great. Kelvin Harrison Jr. was a surprisingly strong lead, felt very authentic and believable as this prodical student that could also be a masterful tactician just looking out for his friends.
Naomi Watts gave us her best performance for at least a couple of years. Octavia Spencer was great as ever and gave us a character while hard to know if you were supposed to root for them or not, was constantly engaging.
This is a film that is most definitely open to interpretation, but in a very accessible way for a mainstream audience to get involved. It covers topics and themes that are very topical and relatable for so many. This will shock you, intrigue you and you will want to instantly see this again to make sure your interpretation of it was the right one. I think everyone should check this out as I can see this being a heavily discussed film once it's out on general release.
Rating: 8/10
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