This review was filed from the Chicago International Film Festival.
Marshall is a film that has all the aspects of a great movie. I was fortunate enough to snag tickets to the Chicago Film Festival premiere of this movie, and all I can say about this movie is: wow. I was expecting a good film, but Reginald Hudlin's depiction of a case young Thurgood Marshall was defending is just spectacular. And, based on the sound effects made by the audience, I wasn't the only one who thought so. Throughout the movie, the energy in the auditorium was amazing, with people laughing at every joke, applauding every inspiring moment, and making the most out of the film. At the end of the film, the theatre instantly sprung into applause, which this film truly deserved. Marshall managed to pull of what little movies can these days: to take a serious and true story, and to keep it entertaining from start to end with constant humor, powerful moments, and deeper themes. And that is amazing in itself. First off, the acting in this film is superb. Chadwick Boseman, formerly known as playing characters like Jackie Robinson (42), James Brown (Get On Up), and Marvel Superhero Black Panther (Captain America: Civil War, Black Panther), shines in his role, and plays young Marshall to perfection. Josh Gad, representing lawyer Sam Friedman, sinks into his role perfectly, as does ex-Downton Abbey star Dan Stevens. Especially amazing is Sterling K. Brown, playing the defendant Joseph Spell. And, because of all of the actors performing amazing, it adds to a different level of the film being amazing. The chemistry between everyone is perfect, and the script and plot suits these actors perfectly. Surprisingly, the film is filled with a lot of laughs, which adds to the entertainment effect. The film starts with a bang, knowing where it wants to go, and taking the audience there throughout the film. The film is filled with powerful moments, and deeper things that really get you thinking. Overall, Marshall was one of the most surprising and best films of the year, and I highly recommend it. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.