Peneflix MOVIE REVIEWS BY PENEFLIX
Reminiscent of a bleak and dreary period in our mid-twentieth century historical fight for racial equality: 1964, Mississippi where 3 civil rights workers were murdered; the film commences in 1966 with black FBI agent Wayne Strider (excellent Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) paired with legendary mafia maniac Greg Scarpa (Mark Wahlberg, cloned for the role); the value of the film lies in the profundity of their acting acuity, developing of their aesthetics, both within and outside legal boundaries.
Directed by Elegance Bratton (“The Inspection”) the two protagonists are sent to Mississippi to investigate the murder of civil rights leader Vernon Dahmer (Giancarlo Esposito) his “crime” helping blacks to pay poll taxes to vote; his death and devastation of his home, brilliantly, brutally depicted, as are the demonic actions of the Ku Klux Klan. This film is not for the squeamish, torture and gore monopolize pivotal screen time; but balanced by actor Nicole Beharie, Wayne’s wife, who gifts grace and dignity to the role.
“By Any Means” flirts with the legitimacy of real events in the 1960’s, focusing on men whose destinies crossed, blended, even for a moment in time; a time so many regret and pray never to be repeated.
THREE STARS!!!
Peneflix
