Burden

I can't write anything bad about this film, one of the best films I've seen all year, the actors and the acting where amazing the story is relevant, it's based on true people and events. I highly recommend it.

A praiseworthy film which sets out to show how the power of love can transcend a highly emotively charged existence governed by hate, frustration. bigotry and resentfulness, polarised between black and white communities living at subsistence level. The three principal characters are severely tested in different ways. Worst hit is Mike, a brilliant subtle in depth portrayal by Garrett Hedlund to match his Dean Moriarty in 'On the Road' He has to suffer a transformation where he is assailed and reviled on all sides except in his relationship. His lover Judy is strong enough to be prepared to sacrifice her love if he continues his life of violence - once he has proved his love to be stronger, she commits herself to him come what may. A strong and convincing portrayal from Andrea Riseborough whom I have watched and appreciated as Margaret Thatcher, Wallis Simpson and Stalin's daughter from this amazingly versatile performer. And of course the always excellent Forest Whitaker, who preaches love but organises demonstrations which risk provoking violence, has to prove he really can practice what he preaches. There are no perfect heroes here - just a lesson in how current issues could be addressed if cooler attitudes could prevail.

I remember seeing this title at Sundance in 2018. Outside of needing some editing in the second Act, I thought it was an extremely moving and solid film. Garrett Hedlund is mesmerizing in his performance, and I especially enjoy stories that are based on true events. Courage, love, and redemption. Thank you Mr. Hedlund. I look forward to your future projects, and maybe we will work together one day. Highly recommend this film.

The story centers on Mike Burden of Laurens, SC in 1996. This is a poor community. Mike works as a repo man and is a member of the Klan which opens a museum in town. On one of his repo rounds, he meets a single mom and the two hit it off. The problem is that she does not like the Klan which whittles away at Mike. Sometimes you have to hit bottom, dig a hole and then start to go up. Based on a true story. I found it interesting how things played out. Forest Whitaker is always a plus and how is it that British women (Andrea Riseborough) can play Southerners better than Southerners aka Vivien Leigh? In 1996 the Confederate Flag was flying at the SC Capitol. Guide: F-word. No sex or nudity.