The Birth of a Nation

A harrowing portrayal of a real-life slave rebellion in 19th-century Virginia from writer/director and star Nate Parker. The revolt is led by Nat Turner (Parker), a preacher living in slavery, motivated by the horrors he sees to rise up against his white oppressors. Directed confidently by the first-time film-maker, it brings the grim reality of plantation life to the screen. While the plot lacks delicacy at times - preferring to hammer home points rather than exercise subtlety - the inherent power of the story overcomes these flaws, making Turner's journey feel vital and captivating, particularly in the first hour. Parker is the film's engrossing emotional centre, supported by a conflicted performance from Armie Hammer (as Turner's owner), and the horrifying presence of Jackie Earle Haley who is a monster, even by the film's own, unflinching standards. While Parker does rely on the occasional cliché, The Birth of a Nation brings a hereto untold chapter of American history to vivid life.