He was flawed and beautiful, just like the rest of us. The filmmakers didn’t cast him as a model citizen – but they also didn’t cast him as a criminal. I appreciated the very human characterization of Oscar. The rest of the film recounts his last 24 hours in vivid detail. The film opens with what appears to be cell-phone video footage of the incident where a young, unarmed Oscar Grant was shot in the back by police at a train station in the Bay Area during the early morning hours of New Year’s Day in 2009. A heartfelt and moving portrayal of a young life lost.I had a feeling that Fruitvale Station was going to disturb me, but I felt obligated to see it. In fact, Jordan continues to feel like an actor that is destined to win an Oscar with his amazing ability and audiences can only hope that his future projects, including one with Coogler, are as magnetic as this one. It showcases his talents for storytelling and features an Oscar-worthy performance from Jordan. The footage was one of the many aspects that caused such outrage with protesters who state that police officers used excessive, even aggressive force that day.įruitvale Station is a well-written, superbly directed first feature for newcomer Coogler. The decision may be criticised by some, but its inclusion makes the film more realistic and more heartfelt. Indeed, Grant’s shooting was filmed by many bystanders and subsequently watched by many Americans in its aftermath. The film features some of the footage that was filmed by witnesses that day in the station. Either way the audience’s affection for Grant carries the film and delivers its final revelation with heartbreaking consequences. Audiences will feel great empathy for Grant in his struggle to better himself. For those that have a one-sided opinion of the events at Fruitvale Station, this can either be seen as a criticism or a compliment. Coogler has made Grant a flawed character, but a real one, which makes the events of that horrific day all the more gut-wrenching. Grant also used and dealt drugs, but this is merely part of the character that is displayed onscreen. Flashbacks show that Grant did indeed serve time in prison and is prone to angry outbursts. The film begins with him and his girlfriend discussing his betrayal of her. But Coogler has also made Grant a misguided character. We see his love of his girlfriend and young daughter, as well as his respect for his mother and even for a hurt dog. In no way a perfect viewpoint, but merely a character that loves his family. The director has chosen to portray Grant in a good light. Also, the scenes with his onscreen daughter make the film’s approaching finale so much more felt. The scenes that show Grant with Oscar-winner Spencer are highlights that display his talent holding his own with such a screen presence. Able to hold the audience while alone on screen, through prolonged silences, yet also interacting with the film’s strong cast. His performance is understated, yet layered in portraying Grant’s many aspects. Jordan, Coogler cast a charismatic and brilliant young lead.
This is due in part to Coogler’s script and direction, but also Jordan’s wonderful portrayal of him.
Grant feels so realistic that audiences grow attached to the film’s lead subject. It is a testament to great storytelling that even though audiences know the conclusion, you are still enthralled by the film. Despite the fact that we know the outcome of the day, you yearn to know how Grant will end up on that train platform in the position he finds himself in. The film builds until all hell breaks loose and chaos is felt throughout.
Through Coogler’s simple storytelling and un-flashy script, we get an intimate insight into Grant’s world. This can be a risky approach, but is brilliantly accomplished here, simply because you care about the film’s characters. The majority of the film is about getting to know its characters by watching them. Oscar-winner Forest Whitaker produced the film, after meeting with Coogler, who expressed an early interest to make a film about Grant’s life and death.Īs a story, this works as an observational piece. Coogler also penned the screenplay for the film, with the help and input of Grant’s attorney as well as Grant’s family. Previously Coogler had directed three well-received shorts before moving into feature length films. Watching Grant make both good and bad decisions, while also getting an insight into his past, the film builds to the night at Fruitvale Station where tragedy strikes. We watch as Grant interacts with his girlfriend, daughter, and mother (Spencer), while also trying to straighten out mistakes in his life. The film follows one day in the life of Oscar Grant (Jordan).
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