Movie Overview
Marshall is a compelling historical drama that brings to life the early career of one of America's most pivotal legal figures, Thurgood Marshall. Released in 2017 and directed by Reginald Hudlin, the film centers on a specific case in 1941 Connecticut where Marshall, played by the late Chadwick Boseman, travels to defend a Black chauffeur accused of raping a wealthy white woman. Unable to speak in court due to local segregation laws, Marshall must partner with a reluctant Jewish insurance lawyer, portrayed by Josh Gad, to navigate the treacherous legal waters and fight for justice. Kate Hudson co-stars as the opposing counsel, adding depth to this courtroom thriller.
The performances in Marshall are a highlight, with Boseman capturing the charisma and sharp intellect of the future Supreme Court Justice. Reginald Hudlin effectively balances the tension of the crime procedural with the broader themes of the civil rights movement. The film does not shy away from the harsh realities of the era, yet it maintains a tone of hope and resilience. Viewers looking to watch online will appreciate how the movie focuses on a slice of Marshall's life, using the courtroom drama to illustrate the systemic racism of the time.
Critically, Marshall was well-received, boasting an 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid 7.3/10 on IMDb. The film was recognized for its cultural significance, earning an Oscar nomination for Original Song. While the Metacritic score sits at 66/100, the movie has been praised for its entertainment value and educational impact. For fans of biographies and legal dramas, Marshall offers an engaging and important look at the history of the NAACP and the man who broke the color barrier on the nation's highest court. This title is available to stream on Netflix.
