What Is The Hurricane (1999) About?
“The Hurricane” is a biographical film directed by Norman Jewison and released in 1999. It tells the true story of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a boxer who was wrongfully convicted of murder in the 1960s. The film depicts Carter’s rise as a promising boxer, his wrongful conviction for a triple homicide in a bar in Paterson, New Jersey, and his subsequent imprisonment.
Carter, played by Denzel Washington, maintains his innocence throughout the film and finds hope through his friendship with Lesra Martin, a young African American boy who becomes convinced of Carter’s innocence after reading his autobiography. With the help of a group of activists and lawyers, including Lisa Peters and Sam Chaiton, Lesra works to overturn Carter’s conviction.
The film explores themes of racial injustice, perseverance, and the power of friendship and solidarity. It received critical acclaim for Washington’s performance and for its portrayal of Carter’s fight for justice.
What Is the Plot of the Movie?
The film “The Hurricane” recounts the life of middleweight boxer Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter, who was wrongly convicted of a triple murder in a Paterson, New Jersey bar. After nearly two decades in prison, his conviction was overturned. The narrative focuses on Carter’s struggles from 1966 to 1985 as he fights against his wrongful conviction and adjusts to life behind bars.
Running alongside Carter’s story is the tale of Lesra Martin, an underprivileged African American youth from Brooklyn living in Toronto during the 1980s. Martin becomes intrigued by Carter’s autobiography and persuades his Canadian foster family to join him in supporting Carter’s case. The climax of the film centers on Carter’s legal team successfully arguing his innocence before Judge H. Lee Sarokin of the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.
In 1966, Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter, a highly esteemed middleweight boxer with aspirations of becoming a world champion, found himself entangled in a tragic turn of events. Following a triple homicide at a Paterson, New Jersey bar, Carter and his companion John Artis were stopped and questioned by police while driving home from another club in the area.
Though initially not considered suspects, the situation took a drastic turn when Alfred Bello, himself a suspect in the killings, implicated Carter and Artis in the crime. Relying on Bello’s testimony, authorities convicted Carter and Artis of the murders, resulting in Carter receiving three consecutive life sentences.
Maintaining his innocence throughout the trial, Carter attributed his conviction to racial prejudice, his prominence as a boxer, and his activism in the civil rights movement. Despite a later recantation of their testimony by Bello and another suspect, Arthur Bradley, Carter and Artis were once again found guilty.
Following these events, the narrative shifts back to Lesra Martin, who collaborates with a group of Canadian activists in advocating for a review of Carter’s case by the State of New Jersey.
In 1985, a Federal District Court made a landmark decision, concluding that grave constitutional violations occurred during Carter’s second trial and that his conviction was driven by racial biases rather than concrete evidence. Consequently, Carter and subsequently Artis were ultimately released from prison, their wrongful convictions overturned at last.
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Reasons to Watch It
“The Hurricane” offers a compelling true story of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter’s wrongful imprisonment, tackling important social justice themes such as racial injustice and systemic discrimination, while Denzel Washington’s performance adds depth to the narrative. Through themes of resilience and legal injustice, the film provides an emotional and inspirational journey, amplified by its historical context and impactful soundtrack.
- Compelling True Story:
- “The Hurricane” is based on the true story of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a boxer who faced wrongful imprisonment. True stories often provide a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.
- Social Justice Themes:
- The film addresses important social justice themes, including racial injustice and systemic discrimination. It offers an opportunity for viewers to engage with and reflect on these critical issues.
- Denzel Washington’s Performance:
- Denzel Washington’s portrayal of Rubin Carter earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination. Watching Washington’s performance can be a compelling reason for fans of the actor.
- Exploration of Resilience:
- The film explores themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s ability to endure adversity. These themes can be inspirational and resonant for viewers.
- Legal Injustice Narrative:
- If you are interested in stories that highlight flaws within the legal system and the fight against wrongful convictions, “The Hurricane” provides a dramatic representation of such struggles.
- Historical and Cultural Context:
- The film is set against the backdrop of the 1960s and 1970s, offering a glimpse into the historical and cultural context of that period, including civil rights movements and social activism.
- Impactful Soundtrack:
- “The Hurricane” features a notable soundtrack, including the Oscar-nominated song “Hurricane” performed by Bob Dylan. The music adds emotional depth to the film.
- Norman Jewison’s Direction:
- Directed by Norman Jewison, the film showcases the director’s skill in bringing real-life stories to the screen. For those interested in filmmaking, Jewison’s direction may be a point of interest.
- Emotional and Inspirational Journey:
- The emotional journey of Rubin Carter, his fight for justice, and the impact on those who believe in him create a narrative that can be both emotional and inspirational.
Ultimately, the decision to watch “The Hurricane” depends on individual preferences, interests, and the desire to engage with a powerful and socially relevant story. If you appreciate biographical dramas with strong performances and themes of justice, this film might be worth considering.
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Is the Movie a Real or Fictional Story?
“The Hurricane” is based on a real and true story. It tells the life story of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a professional middleweight boxer who was wrongfully convicted of a triple homicide in 1966. Carter spent nearly 20 years in prison before his convictions were overturned, and he was released in 1985.
The film draws inspiration from Carter’s autobiography, titled “The Sixteenth Round,” as well as other sources documenting his life. It portrays the struggles he faced in the legal system, the racial injustice that led to his wrongful imprisonment, and the eventual efforts to prove his innocence.
While “The Hurricane” is a dramatization of real events, it is grounded in the true story of Rubin Carter’s life and his fight against injustice. The film aims to shed light on the systemic issues and racial biases that contributed to his wrongful conviction and imprisonment.
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Is It Critically Panned or Acclaimed?
“The Hurricane” received mixed to positive reviews from critics upon its release. While Denzel Washington’s performance was widely praised, some critics found fault with the film’s pacing and portrayal of certain events. Overall, it was not critically panned, but rather received a range of reactions, with many acknowledging its strengths while also highlighting areas for improvement.
| Aspect | Reception |
|---|---|
| Denzel Washington’s Performance | Widely praised for its depth and authenticity. |
| Portrayal of Social Justice Themes | Acknowledged as a compelling exploration of racial injustice and systemic discrimination. |
| Critical Reception | Mixed reviews with some praising the film’s strengths while others highlighting areas for improvement. |
| Impact on Audiences | Many viewers found the narrative to be emotionally resonant and inspirational. |
| Historical and Cultural Context | Appreciated for its depiction of the 1960s and 1970s civil rights movements. |
| Direction | Norman Jewison’s direction was generally well-regarded, though some critics found fault with pacing. |
| Soundtrack | Praised for its impactful music, particularly Bob Dylan’s Oscar-nominated song “Hurricane.” |
| Resilience Theme | Commended for its exploration of themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s ability to endure adversity. |
| Legal Injustice Narrative | Appreciated for shedding light on flaws within the legal system and the fight against wrongful convictions. |
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What Does the Movie Explore?
“The Hurricane” explores several significant themes, delving into the life of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter and the injustices he faced. Here are some key themes explored in the film:
- Wrongful Imprisonment:
- At the heart of the story is the wrongful imprisonment of Rubin Carter for a crime he did not commit. The film portrays the legal battles, systemic biases, and flaws in the justice system that led to his conviction.
- Racial Injustice:
- The movie addresses the pervasive racial injustice of the 1960s and 1970s. Rubin Carter, as an African American, becomes a victim of racial profiling and discrimination, both in society at large and within the legal system.
- Resilience and Determination:
- Rubin Carter’s resilience and determination in maintaining his innocence while enduring years of imprisonment are central themes. The film explores how Carter holds onto hope and fights for justice against overwhelming odds.
- Institutional Racism:
- The narrative touches on institutional racism within the police force and the legal system. Carter’s case is seen as emblematic of the broader issues of racial bias and discrimination within these institutions.
- Advocacy and Activism:
- The film highlights the efforts of Lesra Martin and his mentors to advocate for Rubin Carter’s release. It explores the role of activism and the impact individuals can have in fighting against injustice.
- Impact of Imprisonment:
- “The Hurricane” portrays the emotional and psychological toll of imprisonment on Rubin Carter. The film depicts how incarceration affects not only the individual but also their relationships and mental well-being.
- Power of Education:
- Lesra Martin’s journey from a troubled youth to becoming an advocate for justice emphasizes the transformative power of education. The film underscores how education can empower individuals to challenge injustice.
- Friendship and Solidarity:
- The relationships that develop between Rubin Carter and those who believe in his innocence, particularly with Lesra Martin and his mentors, highlight themes of friendship and solidarity in the face of adversity.
- Legal Struggles:
- The film delves into the legal struggles and court battles faced by Rubin Carter and his legal team as they work to overturn his wrongful conviction.
- Legacy and Impact:
- “The Hurricane” explores the lasting impact of Rubin Carter’s story on those who fought for his release, on public perceptions of justice, and on the broader conversation about racial inequality.
By exploring these themes, the film sheds light on the complexities of Rubin Carter’s life, the social and racial challenges of the time, and the pursuit of justice against a backdrop of systemic injustice.
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Memorable Moments in the Movie
“The Hurricane” is filled with memorable and impactful moments that contribute to the emotional and narrative depth of the film. Here are some notable moments from the movie:
- Hurricane’s Boxing Success:
- Scenes depicting Rubin “Hurricane” Carter’s success as a professional boxer, showcasing his skill and rising prominence in the boxing world.
- Wrongful Arrest:
- The intense and dramatic scene depicting Carter’s wrongful arrest for a crime he did not commit, setting the stage for the central conflict of the film.
- Prison Letters:
- Rubin Carter’s poignant letters written from prison, reflecting his resilience, determination, and maintaining his innocence despite the harsh conditions.
- Lesra’s Discovery of Carter’s Book:
- The moment when Lesra Martin discovers Rubin Carter’s autobiography, “The Sixteenth Round,” in a used bookstore, sparking his interest in Carter’s story.
- Legal Battles:
- Scenes depicting the legal battles and courtroom drama as Carter’s legal team fights to overturn his wrongful conviction.
- Prison Boxing Matches:
- The portrayal of Carter’s participation in prison boxing matches, showcasing his continued dedication to the sport even in confinement.
- Lesra’s Visit to Carter in Prison:
- The emotionally charged scene where Lesra Martin visits Rubin Carter in prison for the first time, leading to a profound connection between the two.
- Bob Dylan’s Song:
- The inclusion of Bob Dylan’s song “Hurricane” in the film, reflecting the cultural impact of Carter’s story and the role of music in advocacy.
- Carter’s Release:
- The powerful moment when Rubin Carter is finally released from prison after nearly 20 years, symbolizing the triumph of justice.
- Final Scene:
- The closing scene featuring Rubin Carter’s triumphant return to the boxing ring, expressing the resilience of the human spirit.
- Scrap’s Narration:
- Throughout the film, Morgan Freeman’s character, Sam Chaiton (Scrap), provides a reflective and insightful narration, adding depth to the storytelling.
These moments collectively contribute to the emotional journey of “The Hurricane,” showcasing the triumphs and tribulations of Rubin Carter’s life and the impact of the fight for justice. The film’s memorable scenes resonate with viewers and underscore its themes of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.
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Streaming Platforms to Watch The Hurricane Movie From
“The Hurricane” may be available for rental or purchase on various streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, iTunes/Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and YouTube Movies, offering viewers convenient access to the film. These platforms offer diverse options for accessing the movie, allowing audiences to choose their preferred method of viewing.
- Amazon Prime Video:
- Amazon Prime Video is a popular streaming service that offers a diverse selection of movies and TV shows. You may have the option to rent or purchase “The Hurricane” on this platform.
- Hulu:
- Hulu is a streaming service that provides a variety of movies and TV series. It may include “The Hurricane” in its library, either as part of the subscription or available for rent.
- iTunes/Apple TV:
- iTunes and Apple TV offer digital rentals and purchases of movies. “The Hurricane” may be available for digital rental or purchase on these platforms.
- Google Play Movies & TV:
- Google Play Movies & TV is a digital distribution platform where you can rent or buy movies. Check if “The Hurricane” is available for digital rental or purchase on Google Play.
- Vudu:
- Vudu is a digital video store where you can rent or buy movies. “The Hurricane” might be available for digital rental or purchase on Vudu.
- YouTube Movies:
- YouTube Movies is a platform where you can rent or buy digital copies of movies. “The Hurricane” may be available for rental or purchase on YouTube.
“The Hurricane” is potentially accessible for rental or purchase across popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, iTunes/Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and YouTube Movies, providing viewers with convenient options to enjoy the film. These platforms offer diverse avenues for accessing the movie, catering to various preferences and ensuring widespread availability.
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