On Oct. 7, Fox Searchlight Pictures released their new film The Birth of a Nation. This powerful film has already received a large amount of positive feedback from viewers mainly because it is a remake of the film that was produced over 100 years ago, where it was diminishing Nat Turner’s character and praising the KKK for the victory of the south. The 2016 version tells the true story of Nat Turner and the rebellion.
Nate Parker, who was most famous for his character Henry Lowe on The Great Debaters wrote, directed and played Nat Turner’s character in the film. Parker was honored at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival for breaking the record for the most aid for a Sundance Film Festival production at $17.5 million.
Parker’s approach to telling the story is done in a more profound manner. It captures every emotion without leaving any important details out. His character, Nat, is an illiterate slave and pastor on the Virginia Plantation. His owner Samuel Turner is informed that Nat is sermonizing and with rumors of a riot approaching, a follower of Nat convinces Samuel Turner to let Nat sermonize to other slaves in hopes that there will be peace. Nat begins to turn over a new leaf after witnessing his people suffering.
Historical lovers will not only appreciate the story plot, but will learn more about the event that took place and reflect on how it affects them. Some viewers were surprised that the movie spent more time on the backstory rather than the fight. But in most cases, there is a process or a journey to travel before we reach the climax.
The Birth of a Nation is a revolutionary film that will touch many hearts during this battle that we are facing today.