Sovereign

This movie is gut turning. Most people recognize the sovereign movement from online videos showing citizens being difficult with law enforcement and then being arrested. What I find important about this film, while it is barely touched directly by the films dialogue, is its presentation of mental illness brought on by trauma. Near the end of the film we see a very brief discussion on a tragedy that, if offered up sooner, would have given the viewer a bit more of a grip on Jerry's mindset and why he had taken up the path he chose. While this movie is a slow burn it is also a rather fast spiral of decision making which held my interest till the end.

I think this and other films like it should be given note since it reflects the actions of people in other real life events. Being able to recognize when someone has fallen down the rabbit hole and landed themselves and others into dangerous waters is useful in life and benefits society. We see the young teen, Joe, in this story obviously confused and without true understanding of the peril he is in. We see the theme of growing up thinking life is "normal" when it's far from it.

So apt for the world we are living and an important portrayal of an element of society that poses an eternal threat to that society.

Since reading about Timothy McVeigh years ago I've always been somewhat fascinated by the disassociated, those who drift further and further into their very own world of indoctrination and delusion. I know people of that ilk, albeit mild in nature by comparison. I'd imagine everyone knows at least one.

Contrary to other comments, I liked the pacing. The acting was excellent. Offerman totally convincing and memorable. Every conspiracy theorist should be made to watch movies like this to see where delusion can lead to.

My daughter and I are both attorneys who lecture on the "sovereign citizen" movement. We're also published in this area. This is about as close as you'll get to this one horrible case based on facts. Other sov cits are mostly down on their luck looking to content creators who hold seminars on line or in hotels as seen here. They are found in 11 countries and NONE OF THEIR METHODS HAVE EVER WORKED! No one ever got off at trial, got paid by their "secret trust", saved their house or car. You need a license, registration & insurance & no, you're not "traveling" in "the private". Don't get taken in by it.

Just watched Sovereign (2024) and found it to be a well-crafted tragedy. It's a haunting exploration of father/son dynamics, with Nick Offerman as a delusional, anti-government father grooming his teenage son for a future he doesn't want-but doesn't have much choice in. Inspired by true events, the film is a slow burn-there's action, but it takes its time building tension and developing its characters. It's melancholy, tense, and beautifully acted, with a supporting cast including Dennis Quaid, Nancy Travis, and Martha Plimpton-an interesting mix of talent that totally works. An impressive directorial debut from Christian Swegal.

A tense, absorbing character study that showcases Nick Offerman at his absolute best. Christian Swegal's debut feature, Sovereign, feels remarkably assured, smart, gripping, and full of striking little details that reward close attention. As an indie film, it makes the most of its modest scale to deliver a atmospheric experience that feels both personal and cinematic. Swegal leans into sharp writing, focused direction, and strong performances to build tension without relying on spectacle, proving that indie filmmaking, when done with this level of care and vision, can be just as impactful as big-budget thrillers. A confident, memorable thriller that lingers long after the credits roll.