Daniel Kaluuya Shines In Strong Judas and the Black Messiah

By Nolan Cleary, Managing Editor

Considered a major contender to potentially win an Oscar, “Judas and the Black Messiah” kicks off black history month showcasing the life of Fred Hampton, played by Daniel Kaluuya, the former leader of the Chicago Black Panthers group, and how he was controversially killed by the F.B.I. 

The film follows William O’Neil, an African-American man arrested for car theft and impersonation of a federal agent. O’Neil, played by LaKeith Stanfield, faces years in prison and is offered a way out by infiltrating the Black Panthers chapter of Chicago. 

O’Neil quickly finds himself in the belly of the beast as infamous F.B.I. Director J. Edgar Hoover, portrayed by Martin Sheen, does everything in his power to ensure that Hampton doesn’t become a Messiah-like figure to the Black Panthers. 

“Judas and the Black Messiah” is directed by Shaka King, who in the past has directed films like “Newley-Weds.” This film may prove to be King’s big break as the movie has many riding on its success. Daniel Kaluuya is exceptional in his performance as he brings a sense of drama and gravitas to the role. 

Stanfield also gives what may be a career-defining performance. His character is at a moral impasse throughout the film as he must constantly make decisions without being persuaded by his anger. Martin Sheen is extremely entertaining as J. Edgar Hoover, transforming into precisely the infamous figure he is from appearance to impression, to image and likeness. 

The film usually feels well directed as King supplements the preexisting usage of music from the story’s time period. Unfortunately, some of the original scores by Mark Isham and Craig Harris are bland and unmemorable, but pack the punch the film has to offer. “Judas and the Black Messiah” did feel bland in some places, but the film shines when it doesn’t try to attach itself to the backside of previous popular movies. 

The editing remains a strong factor in the movie. The pacing, like with many awards season films, is fast and slick. It feels to the point for audience members. In some cases, the direction did feel like Oscar bait, but King’s attempt to add Levi mate drama and stakes made up for questionable decisions. 

The film does try to add depth to Stanfield’s O’Neil, attempting to portray a man living with his convictions for money more Biblically as the title suggests. However, the screenplay did often suffer. 

For a film based on true events, the movie often feels predictable, even if you have every idea of the events inspiring the “Judas and the Black Messiah” concept. Some aspects felt underdeveloped. However, it’s Stanfield’s performance and the convictions of a man who forever is haunted by the consequences of his actions, even in death, that sells Judas. 

While it may not be the Oscar hit that the Warner Bros. hoped for, “Judas and the Black Messiah” still lands intriguing character drama and timely social messages, only helped by good performances. 

“Judas and the Black Messiah” debuts in theatres and on HBO Max this Friday. 

7/10