“The Trial Of The Chicago 7” is currently streaming on Netflix along with “Mank,” “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” “Hillbilly Elegy,” “Over The Moon,” “My Octopus Teacher” & “Crip Camp.” It received critical acclaim from critics and streamers alike. In addition to unanimous praise, it earned Oscar nominations for “Best Supporting Actor,” (Sacha Baron Cohen) “Best Original Screenplay” (Aaron Sorkin) & “Best Original Song.” (Hear My Voice)
Originally planned for a theatrical release, Paramount Pictures & Steven Spielberg’s production company DreamWorks made an exclusive deal with Netflix to stream the film due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. They made the right choice to distribute it at home once this predicament is finally over, everybody will go see a movie like the good old days.
Before “The 2021 Academy Awards” air tonight on ABC, I want to share my thoughts on this movie as I prepare to watch the awards ceremony.
This review contains no crucial SPOILERS. I’m giving everybody a chance to see this movie. Keep in mind, this is a short review so bear with me. I got a lot on my plate as I’m trying to watch and review Oscar nominated as much as I can before The Oscars air. Feel free to read my non-spoiler article. Is it worth a watch? Let’s find out shall we?
Innocent & Guilty Aspects
Innocent: The Main Cast such as Sacha Baron Cohen, Eddie Redmayne, Yahya Abdul-Mateen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Mark Rylance, Michael Keaton, Jeremy Strong & Frank Langella all did an excellent job for their respective performances. Although known for his satirical comedic eccentric roles as Ali G, King Julian, (from Madagascar) Jean Girard, (from Talladega Nights: The Ballard Of Ricky Bobby) Borat & Brüno, Sacha really pulled off a dramatic performance. No wonder he’s nominated for Best Supporting Actor. Sacha definitely earns Bonus Points.
Aaron Sorkin (The West Wing, The Newsroom, Molly’s Game, The Social Network) did an awesome job directing the film. He also wrote the script as he did extensive research of the titular trial. He’s known for dialogue driven works. Most notably, The West Wing.
Cinematography never suffered from any technical flaws whatsoever. Thank goodness the cameraman didn’t consume too much Red Bull. Otherwise the camera ends up being shaky.
Daniel Pemberton (Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse and its upcoming sequel) served as a composer.
Costume Designs reflect the time period.
Set Pieces were manually constructed by set designers.
Editing didn’t have any issues at all.
Set in The Late 60s during The Vietnam War, eight defendants from different organizations linked to an anti-war protest gone horribly wrong are put on trial charged with conspiracy. The Defendants recall the horrific protest via flashbacks.
Although primarily set in The Late 60s, the film is disturbingly relevant. One of 2020’s worst events in history is protests involving George Floyd’s death and The U.S. Capitol Riot led by far-right Trump supporters which is so far, one of the worst events in 2021.
Arc Words are: ” The Whole World Is Watching.” The phrase is used as a chant by anti-war protestors.
Opening Montage gives us a historical glimpse of pivotal historic events from The 60s. Meaning we’re going back in time to witness a real life trial.
A “Where Are They Now” text reveals the aftermath of the trial and status quo of The Defendants.
As the film progresses, we get context behind each of The Defendants’ motivation.
Celeste performs the Oscar nominated song “Hear My Voice.”
Guilty: I cannot find nothing wrong with this film. I’m giving The Cast & Crew an Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
From my point of view, The Trial Of The Chicago 7 is definitely worth your spare time from start to finish. I didn’t expect Sacha Baron Cohen to pull off a dramatic performance. I think he deserves an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Aaron Sorkin crafted the script recapturing significant events from the real life trial. If you wanna watch The Trial Of The Chicago 7, I strongly recommend it. Reminder, don’t forget to watch The Oscars tonight on ABC. I also strongly recommend Netflix’s Oscar nominated films including Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Hillbilly Elegy & Crimp Camp.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 