Attica

Attica is a tense and powerful drama that portrays the 1971 prison uprising and subsequent massacre that occurred at the Attica Correctional Facility in New York State. The film is directed by Marvin J. Chomsky and features an impressive cast, including Morgan Freeman, Charles Durning, and Henry Darrow.

The movie begins by introducing the character of Russell Oswald (Charles Durning), the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Correctional Services, who is faced with the task of managing the deteriorating conditions at Attica prison. The prisoners are subjected to overcrowding, poor living conditions, and institutionalized racism, which fuels their anger and frustrates their attempts at peaceful reforms.

When the prisoners’ grievances are not addressed, a group of inmates takes control of the facility, taking hostages and demanding better treatment. The state officials, including Oswald, are caught off-guard by the sudden uprising, but they are determined to regain control of the prison at any cost.

As the negotiations between the prisoners and the authorities drag on, tensions rise on both sides, and the situation becomes increasingly volatile. Eventually, the state troopers are called in to quell the uprising, and a violent confrontation ensues, resulting in the death of many inmates and hostages.

The film skillfully depicts the horrors of the uprising, with graphic violence and intense emotional scenes that capture the desperation and fear of both the prisoners and the officials. The characters are well-developed, and their motivations and reactions to the events are portrayed in a nuanced and believable way.

The film also highlights the systemic issues that led to the Attica uprising, including the widespread mistreatment of prisoners and the racial divide that permeated the prison system. The inmates are shown as complex and multifaceted individuals, with their motivations and ideals clearly articulated throughout the film.

One of the standout performances in the film belongs to Morgan Freeman, who plays a leading role as a prisoner who becomes a key figure in the negotiation process. Freeman’s portrayal is nuanced and restrained, showcasing the character’s intelligence and charisma without slipping into caricature or stereotype.

Overall, Attica is an intense and thought-provoking film that sheds light on an important moment in American history. The film is a sobering reminder of the deep-seated inequality and injustice that still exists in our prison system, and it serves as a powerful call to action for reform and change.