THE BURIAL is inspired by a true courtroom drama and story. It showcases the multi-talented, award-winning Jamie Foxx as Willie Gary and Tommy Lee Jones as Jeremiah O’Keefe. Still, it ends up being so much more about racism within the funeral business of Mississippi.
The film is highly entertaining, fast-paced, and sharply produced. It depicts two totally different men who become allies during a battle of epic proportions. Our society promotes disproportionate burying costs of the poor to the rich. But finding a way in and proving this becomes the crux of the plot. We are privy to skeletons in the closet that leave it all on the courtroom floor.
The acting quality of the ensemble is superb. There are intense moments where the viewer will not want to even breathe too loudly for fear of missing all the nuances of this movie. The extra beats and silences added to the angst and even overall joy. The gospel style of Willie was a creative hoot to witness. (He is truly a fast talker.) Jeremiah’s style was a simmering, quiet master class in character development. I loved the chutzpah of the two together. Powerful and thought-provoking.
THE BURIAL is a testament to what happens when everyone “hates to lose.” “Litigation is war,” especially during the passing of small pieces of paper back and forth when negotiating. Oh, I do believe there will be BETTER DAYS for all. This film is worth your time and attention. It is available to stream on Prime Video.
