The Underground Railroad Story :-
Barry Jenkins’ adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s novel, “The Underground Railroad,” presents a haunting narrative that delves into the harrowing journey of Cora (Thuso Mbedu) as she escapes slavery with the aid of Martin (Damon Herriman), a white man involved in smuggling. As the story unfolds, viewers are confronted with scenes of unspeakable brutality, such as the sight of lynched corpses adorning the trees along their path, ominously named “The Freedom Trail.”
Movie Ratings
| Release Date | 14 May 2021 |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Drama, Fantasy, History, War |
| Episodes | 10 |
| Cast | Thuso Mbedu, Chase Dillon, Joel Edgerton, Fred Hechinger, Peter Mullan, Mychal-Bella Bowman, Sheila Atim |
| Director | Barry Jenkins |
| Writer | Jihan Crowther |
| Cinematography | James Laxtoncite |
| Music | Nicholas Britell |
| Producer | Barry Jenkins, Adele Romanski, Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner |
| Production | Plan B Entertainment, Pastel Productions, Big Indie Pictures, Amazon Studios |
| Certificate | 18+ |
A subtle yet significant alteration from the novel is observed when Martin, instead of stating “I wanted you to see this,” tells Cora, “You need to see this.” This slight shift raises thought-provoking questions about the necessity and implications of bearing witness to acts of violence and oppression, echoing broader discussions prompted by depictions of similar themes in contemporary media.
Despite the deliberation over whether such imagery should be portrayed, Jenkins courageously brings “The Underground Railroad” to life on Amazon Prime Video, offering viewers a visceral and emotionally resonant experience. The series serves as a testament to humanity’s resilience, resistance, and capacity for love amid the darkest chapters of history.
Jenkins sets the tone for the series in its opening episode, establishing it as an escape story following Cora and her companion Caesar (Aaron Pierre) as they flee a Georgia plantation characterized by grotesque punishments and cruelty. Their journey unfolds against the backdrop of a magical realist interpretation of the Underground Railroad, transforming it from a mere metaphor into a tangible network of refuge and danger.
Throughout Cora’s odyssey across various states, from South Carolina to Indiana, viewers are exposed to the multifaceted and monstrous face of America, where paternalistic regimes, oppressive laws, and biblical calamities shape her experiences. Jenkins masterfully captures the contrasts between freedom and captivity, safety and peril, evoking a profound sense of the systemic cruelty ingrained in society.
At the heart of the narrative is Cora herself, portrayed with magnetic intensity by Thuso Mbedu. Her performance transcends dialogue, relying on subtle gestures and expressions to convey the profound trauma and resilience of her character. Jenkins’ visual storytelling, complemented by James Laxton’s stunning cinematography, immerses viewers in a world both horrifying and awe-inspiring, where every frame pulsates with raw emotion.
In addition to its technical prowess, “The Underground Railroad” excels in its portrayal of characters as individuals with agency and dignity, rather than mere victims of their circumstances. Jenkins intersperses the narrative with poignant still portraits, offering glimpses into the humanity and strength of its ensemble cast.
Structurally, the series adheres to Whitehead’s narrative design while expanding upon certain elements, such as Ridgeway’s backstory and flashbacks to Cora’s mother, Mabel. While the pacing may feel leisurely at times, Jenkins’ meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the story is richly realized and profoundly impactful.
In conclusion, “The Underground Railroad” stands as a monumental achievement in storytelling, inviting viewers to bear witness to the resilience of the human spirit amidst unfathomable adversity. While the series may be unsettling and brutal, it also offers glimpses of hope and memory, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, the smallest seeds of resilience can endure.
Ultimately, the decision to watch “The Underground Railroad” rests with each individual viewer. However, those who choose to embark on this journey will find themselves deeply moved and enriched by its exploration of history, humanity, and hope in the face of unimaginable cruelty.
