Detroit

THE GIST: In the summer of 1967, Detroit is a city rocked by civil unrest and violent riots to protest police brutality against the Black community. During a raid at the Algiers Motel, cops start beating up and executing people when it becomes clear that they've crossed a line. The following investigation is only the beginning of a vast cover-up.

Based on factual events, Detroit could easily be a movie about events that happened this past summer, or the one before, or the one before that, which is ultimately the saddest and most damning thing about it.

Deftly directed by Kathryn Bigelow, her trademarks of grittiness and action are plentiful. The script is well-written and with good character development. The cast is top-notch all around.

THE BOTTOM LINE: It seems incredible that events like these happened and even more so that they continue happening. Will America ever evolve beyond its widespread racism? Will it ever atone for its original sin? A really good movie.

Grade: 8.5