Film review
Angie Thomas taught us that sometimes we can do everything right and things will still go wrong. The key is to never stop doing right.
the hate u give
Release Date: 5 October 2018
Released by: 20th Century Fox
Directed by: George Tillman Jr
Screenplay: Audrey Wells
Hello everyone!
My name is Barbara, and I am back with another review! This week I am not doing a book review, but I am going to do a film review! Exciting right? The film I will be talking about will not be reviewed just because I enjoyed it, but because it has educated and enlightened me on a very important and controversial topic in contemporary society. This film incorporates an astonishing story line, with fantastic actors that depict the characters exceptionally well. This film is called ‘The Hate U Give’, based on the novel composed by Angie Thomas.
Amanda Stenberg as Starr Carter
George Tillman Jr, Director
Within this incredible text, the concept of racial discrimination and gang conflict is explored, along with the reality of American laws and their inability of maintaining a reliable and non-racist police presence. The film begins with briefing the audience on the environment where the heroine remains in the film, and then moves to a scene where protagonist Starr Carter’s father states the rights of ‘Black people’. By emphasising the concept of how there are different rights for individuals of a darker skin type, it positions us to feel apprehensive and to gain an understanding of how there is segregation evident in their society. The film proceeds to depict the typical day in Starr Carter’s life, and how she distinctly separates her at home and school life from one another.
The scene that reflects the theme of the film, is where Starr Carter’s best friend is shot by a white police officer when he uses a comb, which is mistaken as a gun after being pulled over. From this point on, Carter becomes an activist for black rights, and protests along with her community when the officer involved isn’t sentenced.
Starr Carter is the main character in the film, reinforcing the idea of a strong female lead who defends her racial group, and becomes an activist to support the changes her ethnicity demands. This point is undoubtedly the main reason as to why she is my favourite character, as she defends her community despite the judgement that would ultimately erupt and dismiss her racist friend.
I strongly advise you to go on this emotional roller coaster, because it honestly gives you a whole new perspective when viewing these real life situations! However, if you are a junior student, let me just warn you that there are several upsetting moments in the film that may cause you distress.
-Barbara M, Year 10