Few would regard the Civil War era as a time period ripe for
cinematic harvesting as countless films have dealt with it in one way or
another over the years. Free State of
Jones directed by Gary Ross offers a unique angle on this era with the true
story of Confederate army deserter who leads a rebellion against the corrupt Southern
government in his home state of Mississippi.
One reason the film engaged me was because of the strength
of Matthew McConaughey’s performance.
His Newton Knight presents the right amount of intelligence and charisma
to make his leadership believable. McConaughey’s comeback over the last five
years is ever apparent, even perhaps if this film isn’t his best or most
coherent.
The film deals with the issue of slavery in an interesting light. It depicts how the emancipation of black
slaves at the war’s end did not mean immediate freedom or easy times. In fact, the film demonstrates how the
cessation of war brought on the rise of the Klu Klux Klan and other
organizations of hatred that have made life horrendous for black citizens especially
in the South.
The film isn’t all warfare and endless action. There are long periods of inaction and
dialogue-heavy scenes that may be a hindrance to some viewers’ attention spans. But with patience, the film can be a
rewarding experience on many levels even though it is far from perfect. It is a testament to one man’s courageous
vision and presents a character that, contrary to common sense, stood up to and
opposed the Southern United States’ ideology.
Free State of Jones demonstrates that you don’t have to be a victim of
your own birthplace and heritage but that people can have independence,
courage, and compassion regardless of the beliefs of the surrounding culture.
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