On Aug. 10, 2018 “BlacKkKlansman,” hit theaters nationwide. The movie is based on true events written in Ron Stallworth’s memoir, “Black Klansman: Race, Hate, and the Undercover Investigation of a Lifetime.”
The film, set in the 1970s, follows Ron Stallworth (John David Washington), an African-American police officer in his journey through the police force. Although he did not work for the Colorado Springs Police Department for long, Stallworth has his eyes set on advancement. Due to his ambition, his chief places him in intelligence — this is where the story begins.
Within days of his position change, Stallworth decides to call a number he found in a newspaper ad for the local Klu Klux Klan chapter. During the phone call, he is able to snag an interview with the president of the chapter to possibly “join,” but commits a rookie mistake — he uses his real name.
Due to Stallworth being a black man and the inherent risk that poses, he receives the help from his colleague “Flip” Zimmerman, played by Adam Driver, to impersonate Stallworth in person.
The film achieved relaying these powerful messages, but was also able to contribute comedic relief to the audience mainly through the dynamic of Ron and Flip’s partnership throughout the investigation. This may be because Jordan Peele, comedian and Oscar-winning director of the hit film “Get Out,” was a part of the production team.
A significant factor of this particular film is the relevance it holds in today’s world. As many people have seen, racism is unfortunately not dead and America has a long way to go in terms of making progress in that area. Racism is a struggle deeply rooted in the social downfalls of this country, and because of that, people should take the initiative to heighten their understanding.
Overall, the film was truly enjoyable to watch and incredibly eye-opening. Ron Stallworth was a refreshing character to witness in a film.
What’s beautiful about the film is that, no matter what cultural background you may be from, the parallels to today’s society and messages within the film can offer something for everyone. Should we allow fear to take over and create hate for one another, or should we rather allow acceptance and compassion to take the lead?
Macey Rose is a freelance reporter with the Daily Lobo. She can be contacted by email at culture@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @maceyrae9.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
