The death penalty is one of the most talked-about subjects in politics. Just Mercy, based on the memoir of the same name, discusses the evils of the penalty, with the story of a man accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Looking at the young lawyer trying to save his life, the film shows the horror of systemic racism in this compelling and emotional legal drama. Alongside an expert cast and nuanced direction, Just Mercy is a poignant, powerful feature that deserves more attention.

Quiet Emotions

The film itself is very conventional and straightforward. In fact, the film avoids any twists and surprises. Therefore, it makes its messaging all the more powerful. As Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) learns more about the case of Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), the film immediately makes it clear McMillian is innocent. It’s a brilliant creative decision from director Destin Daniel Cretton. It showcases the systemic racism and the lack of ambiguity makes it all the more powerful.

Each sequence is full of subtle emotion that makes it tough, yet endearing to watch. The screenplay is sensitive, but not heavy-handed, with many sequences having little to no dialogue. As a result, each scene lands and sticks in the viewer’s mind. This is best shown through McMillian’s interactions with his fellow death row inmates. Cretton is smart to give these characters dimension. It makes the social issues stronger and more intense for the viewer. Likewise, it makes people think more about the treatment of African-Americans than it would have with long monologues.

Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx

Further helping the movie’s effective message is its two stars. Director Destin Daniel Cretton did great work in his debut feature Short Term 12. Specifically, with its cast of relatively young actors who would all go on to find great success years later. However, this film opts for already existing talent. But that’s far from a bad thing, as Cretton knows how to let these actors shine.

Michael B. Jordan is great as always. Cretton uses perhaps his greatest strength, his eyes, to bring Stevenson to life. There’s so many great expressions that show his vulnerability and his kindness. Jordan knows how to make Stevenson easy to root for, which is tough to handle.

The real star of the show though is Jamie Foxx. His quiet and reserved demeanor really works here. Foxx sells it a man struggling with trauma, as every time he’s on screen, it’s emotional and memorable. It may just be some of the best work of his career.

The two especially work well together. The viewer can feel the hostility in their initial encounter, and believe the growing understanding and friendship. It truly feels like they become close friends in the end, and it helps the film has such strong moments that allows them to breathe and talk and relate. It’s only further proof at how great both actors are and where Cretton shines best as a director.

To Conclude…

Just Mercy works on just about every level. It shines in its subtle writing and performances, and explains why the death penalty and systemic racism go hand in hand. And more importantly, it pays respect to the important work of its figure Bryan Stevenson, and his continued work in the legal world. And for any biopic, that should be the top priority.

Read my thoughts on the recent Academy Award nominations here