Justin Kurzel’s latest film, The Order, has ignited discussions about the portrayal of extremism on screen, per bbc.com. The intense drama, starring Nicholas Hoult and Jude Law, delves into the dark world of white supremacist violence in 1980s America.
Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest in 1983-84, the film follows Bob Mathews (Hoult), a charismatic leader who transforms racist rhetoric into a series of armed robberies and planned terrorist attacks. On his trail is FBI agent Terry Husk (Law), a hard-drinking, pill-popping veteran whose determination to crack the case threatens to consume him.
Critics praise the film’s stellar performances, with Hoult’s chilling portrayal of Mathews drawing particular attention. Law brings gritty intensity to the role of Husk, elevating what could have been a cliché-ridden character. The supporting cast, including Tye Sheridan and Jurnee Smollett, rounds out a powerhouse ensemble.
Kurzel’s direction shines in the film’s visceral action sequences, drawing comparisons to Michael Mann’s Heat. The period setting and locations are meticulously crafted, immersing viewers in the era’s atmosphere of simmering tensions.
However, The Order is not without controversy. Some critics express concern that the film’s portrayal of Mathews as a competent strategist could potentially glorify his actions to those sympathetic to his ideology. The pacing has also drawn criticism, with the plot sometimes failing to maintain the tension its subject matter demands.
Despite these reservations, The Order is being hailed as a thought-provoking exploration of a dark chapter in recent history. The film’s epilogue, linking the events to the 2021 US Capitol attack, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by extremist ideologies.
- Featured image: Nicholas Hoult in ‘The Order’/AGC Studios
