John's Review of "The Best of Enemies"

by John Zenoni

If you're looking for an inspiring, thought provoking and emotional film with strong acting, I highly recommend “The Best of Enemies.” The film is based on the true story of Ann Atwater (portrayed by Taraji P. Henson), an outspoken civil rights activist, and C.P. Ellis (portrayed by Sam Rockwell), a local Ku Klux Klan leader, who both agree (with much hesitation) to co-chair a community group that is battling over the desegregation of schools in Durham, North Carolina in 1971. While I feel that the film does have some moments of ‘overacting’ to get its message across, it doesn't take away from the fact that the film has an important message nonetheless and one that needs to be heard. The performances by the entire cast are solid but the scene-stealers are definitely Henson and Rockwell, who are both stellar in their performances. It's a tough film to watch at times but one that looks back on a piece of history that can't be forgotten. If you watch the film, be sure to watch the extras on the blu-ray or dvd in order to see interviews with the real Atwater and Ellis.