The Best of Enemies

Been in a bit of a slump on the movie front.  Haven’t seen anything lately that really “does it” for me.  While the subject matter is far from light or what I’d normally call “entertaining”, The Best of Enemies starring Taraji P. Henson and Sam Rockwell looked like a good bet for a quality film experience. 

The Best of Enemies, happily, delivers on quality from start to finish.  Based on true events in Durham, North Carolina in 1971 the film follows events that led to public school integration and the resulting stranger than fiction friendship that developed through the fight.  Henson portrays black activist/community organizer Ann “Roughhouse Annie” Atwater, bringing a fearless “in your face” tour de force performance. Going toe to toe with Henson is Sam Rockwell as C.P. Ellis, local Ku Klux Klan leader. Both actors chew major scenery, raise the others’ game, and are mesmerizing.  In fact, the entire cast delivers.  The boisterous in your face moments, balanced by nuanced and subtle facial expressions and body language gives a rich texture to the film that’s quite unexpected.

Also unexpected and welcome is the humanity given to both main characters.  I’m a Sam Rockwell fan (though I am starting to wonder what’s with all the racist roles) from way back, but I didn’t expect to have much if any sympathy or understanding for his character.  Robin Bissell’s writing, however, brings forth the mindset of what could easily be a simply “heinous” character. Understanding and compassion follow, making for a next level film. 

While rough to watch/listen to in places given the context of the movie, overall The
Best of Enemies is at its core an inspirational and uplifting film with an underlying message of hope that’s certainly needed today.  Also, not all gloom and doom, there are sweet/touching/emotional moments along with genuine humor.  A slow paced, character driven film, heavy on dialogue, Enemies never drags or feels forced and my attention never waned.  Good soundtrack as well.

Rich characterization, substantive message, powerhouse performances.  The Best of Enemies is definitely worth a trip to the theater and easily the most enjoyable movie experience I’ve had so far in 2019.  

It’s a 9 from me.