Ghosts of Mississippi

THIS FILM IS BASED ON A TRUE STORY. Not only was the real Myrlie Evers consulted while making the film, two of her and Medgar's sons were actually in the film, playing themselves. Benny Bennett also played himself.

It was based on a actual (although little known) event in American history, and shows how there are still conflicts over civil rights today. We also learn that there are still some people in the Southern U.S. that are opposed to laws that have been in place for over 35 years.

So while watching this you shouldn't think "the story is cliche" or "the acting was good, but predictable," you should be thinking that this actually happened, and reflecting on how far we've come as a society, and how far we still need to go.

Glossy but highly effective thriller based on the true story of an attempt to bring a racially motivated killer to trial. The film suffers from a certain liberal obviousness: brave, charming white man (who loves his kids) and dignified black widow fight side by side for justice; but it's always compelling, and pertinent too. No magic, then, but a strong story: one of director Rob Reiner's better efforts.

This movie tells a fascinating piece of our history, how one man could escape justice for so long. It was very moving to see how he was eventually brought to justice.

Part of what made this a good movie was the way it didn't doctor the facts to make them more acceptable to a film audience. They stick to true history, and the most outrageous details in the film were true. (Particularly the detail of how the gun was found.) I like a film that respects an audience enough to tell the real history.

Ghosts of Mississippi is an emotional movie that shows how hateful the human soul can be. It may be quite similar to Mississippi Burning but they both have their place. Ghosts of Mississippi is slightly more political and less violent. It focuses on the fight for justice and the roadblocks faced in controversial high-profile cases.

The sheer effort that was involved to develop a level of tolerance in the South is despicable. Every time I watch a movie where racism is so prevalent it simultaneously boils my blood and breaks my heart. The acting is very good and makes you feel like you are living the story. James Woods does such a good job that you can't help but despise him. Especially since he is portraying a real person and not a two dimensional character.

Don't underestimate the emotional connection you will have to this movie. It will move you and is certainly worth your time.

Impressive drama about the assassination of 1960's civil rights leader Medger Evers, which was fought in courts for 30 years until it was re-opened in the 1990's with Mississippi D.A. Bobby DeLaughter (Baldwin) leading the charge to bring assassin Byron De Lay Beckwith (Woods, in a juicy Oscar nominated role) to justice. Goldberg is especially standout as Ever's widow who fought for the truth for over 30 years. Rob Reiner's film may run a little long for some, but the excellent cast and realistic story will keep you glued until the end.