Ghosts of Mississippi (1996)

Rob Reiner's 'Ghosts of Mississipi' is based on a relatively less known (today) reopening of Medger Evers racially motivated murder case. Starting with the flaws of the film, I can see why many would comment that this is another 'white man rescues the oppressed black people flick'. To balance this out, the director could have portrayed more of Evers's life and the significance of what he did and also developed the story of his wife who's an integral part, show more of her (and the family's) struggle. Here the focus is almost entirely on Baldwin's DeLaughter and the obstacles he faces during the trial. The film also appears to be a tad glossy.What does work, even though the story is predictable, is the level of suspense and tension which is very well maintained. You know what'll happen in the end but you still root for Delaughter to succeed every step. Alec Baldwin does a brilliant job as the lawyer who's taken by the injustice and brutality of the crime and seeks to bring justice to the family and community. Whoopi Goldberg wonderfully downplays her part. 'Wish there was more of her. Her character doesn't seem to have 'aged' in 27 years (except for the darker circles round her eyes). James Wood is great as the hateful De la Beckwith.'Ghosts of Mississipi' could have been more if only more of the late Medgar and his wife's life was included but it certainly is a watchable film that reminds one of a forgotten important event in America.

I am a great fan of John Grisham novels and watching this, I felt as if I were watching a film of one of his better stories. After all, look at the cast. I have never seen the much-underrated William H. Macy or the ever-dependable James Woods give a bad performance, and they certainly don't here -- especially Mr Woods, who must have needed several hot showers after playing such a slimy role! However, the great thing about this film is not the undeniably great performances, it is the story. After all, this isn't a novel, it is true, a story that needs to be told repeatedly. Why? Firstly, to show that not every white in Mississippi is a racist; secondly, to show that happy endings don't just happen in old movies; thirdly, to reassure everyone who has faced injustice due to their colour, religion or background that justice can and does happen, but only when good people are willing to make it happen. Now before anyone accuses me of being some screaming liberal, let me point out that I am a white African, a race as closely (and excessively) associated with racism as Mississippians. Nonetheless, a murderer is a murderer, and so it is good to see the law punish one -- even if it took so many years!

Strong performances from Alec Baldwin, James Woods, Whoopi Goldberg, Craig T. Nelson, Bill Smitrovich and William H. Macy makes "Ghosts Of Mississippi" one of the best movies I have seen. "Ghosts Of Mississippi" deserved an oscar in every single category that one can be given in because it was that good.I never knew the story of Medgar Evers before I saw this film; but, I learned a lot through watching the film. I hope everyone has the same experience and opportunity I had when I saw this movie because it is one history lesson that should be seen rather than read in history books or newspaper archives. I was truly honored to watch this film. There are several reasons this film is a success; one of them are the performances. "Ghosts Of Mississippi" is each actors best film of their career bar none. Alec Baldwin brings intensity, aggressiveness and never say die attitude to his role as Bobby DeLaughter. Whoopi Goldberg stars as Myrlie Evers, widow of Medgar Evers, who with relentless pursuit of justice re-opens this murder case. Finally, James Woods stars as Byron De La Beckwith, the defendant, who with great conviction and sincerity brings the essence of the real person to the surface. As great as Baldwin and Woods are in this they do not hold a candle to Goldberg who gives not only the best performance in the film, year but I dare say the best performance of the decade of the 90's. The second reason why this film remains on my short list of best films are the messages that brought up. For example, equality for all and the fact that any discrimination will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Another message I got from this film was under no circumstances should anybody underestimate the power of tenacity because it will make dreams come true every time. This film was thought-provoking, brilliant and compelling. In addition, "Ghosts Of Mississippi" will move you to tears, put a smile on your face and anger you because these are the emotions I felt watching this movie. Combined with the excellent ensemble performances, brilliant script and messages this film had "Ghosts Of Mississippi" is one film you can't miss. Two thumbs way up.

THIS FILM IS BASED ON A TRUE STORY. Not only was the real Myrlie Evers consulted while making the film, two of her and Medgar's sons were actually in the film, playing themselves. Benny Bennett also played himself.It was based on a actual (although little known) event in American history, and shows how there are still conflicts over civil rights today. We also learn that there are still some people in the Southern U.S. that are opposed to laws that have been in place for over 35 years.So while watching this you shouldn't think "the story is cliche" or "the acting was good, but predictable," you should be thinking that this actually happened, and reflecting on how far we've come as a society, and how far we still need to go.