The plot of Marshall revolves around a single case that the real-life Thurgood Marshall defended early in his career. In 1940, Marshall was a lawyer working for the NAACP when he traveled to Connecticut to defend a black man named Joseph Spell, who had been accused of raping a wealthy white woman. The case was controversial because Spell had never been to Connecticut before and had no connection to the victim. Nevertheless, Spell faced the death penalty if convicted, and Marshall was determined to win the case and establish a precedent that could help future African-American defendants.
Marshall is unique among films set in the mid-20th century for its unflinching portrayal of racism and injustice. The film does not shy away from the harsh realities of segregation-era America, including the lynchings and beatings that African-Americans were subjected to. At the same time, the film is also uplifting in its portrayal of Thurgood Marshall as a hero who fought tirelessly for the rights of underrepresented communities. The film avoids simplistic depictions of African-Americans as passive victims or white Americans as evil oppressors, instead portraying both groups as complex and multifaceted.
One of the main strengths of Marshall is its cast of talented actors. Chadwick Boseman, who previously played Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, turns in a dynamic performance as Thurgood Marshall. Boseman captures both Marshall’s intelligence and his fierce determination, as well as his sense of humor and his unwavering commitment to justice. Josh Gad, best known for his comedic roles, also shines as Sam Friedman, the Jewish lawyer who reluctantly agrees to assist Marshall in the Spell case. Friedman initially balks at working with a black lawyer, but gradually comes to respect Marshall and recognize the importance of the case.
Marshall was a critical success upon its release, receiving positive reviews for its writing, directing, and acting. However, it was a commercial disappointment, grossing only $10 million against a $12 million budget. This may reflect the fact that Marshall is a historical drama with little action, making it less appealing to mass audiences than other recent biopics such as Bohemian Rhapsody or The Social Network.
Despite its commercial underperformance, Marshall remains an important film for its representation of a significant moment in American legal history. Thurgood Marshall went on to become a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement, and his legacy can still be seen in the Supreme Court decisions that protect the rights of minorities and disadvantaged communities. Marshall is a fitting tribute to this legacy, and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in America.
Ultimately, Marshall is a must-watch for those who are interested in American history, as well as high-quality films with excellent cast and crew. With its superb direction, acting, writing, and historical accuracy, the film offers a unique cinematic and educational experience for audiences.