Detroit

I didn't know much about Kathryn Bigelow's latest film, Detroit (2017), except that it took place during the 1967 Detroit riots. And that seemed to be enough since I very much like films set in historical contexts-despite the liberal licenses many directors take with the facts. I was to learn later that the film is based on factual events that took place at the Algiers Hotel where three African American men were killed by police officers under dubious circumstances-of course the cops were not charged with any crimes. I also later found out that John Hersey (famous for his book Hiroshima) wrote a book about the incident. But screenwriter Mark Boal (The Hurt Locker) did his own research interviewing survivors of the incident. It is a gripping thriller that resonates in the racially charged America of today where blacks are routinely gunned down by police who often go unpunished for these acts. I felt that the subject matter is utterly relevant and a very bold act from Bigelow and Boal. They also team with effective Hurt Locker cinematographerBarry Ackroyd. There's a pretty terrific ensemble cast and I won't be surprised if Algee Smith (Larry Cleveland) is nominated for an Academy Award. On the other hand, the weaselly-looking Will Poulter seems specifically cast for his evil features-it seems to me they would have been too young to lead the incident, but perhaps it is historically accurate-these things were taking place during a riot without the usual checks and balances. Overall, it is a timely, thought provoking, and strangely entertaining.