Starring Michael B. Jordan, Melonie Diaz, Octavia Spencer
Directed by Ryan Coogler
Based on actual events that culminated with an unarmed, handcuffed African American man shot dead by Bay Area transit police in 2009, Ryan Cooglers first feature was never going to lack for impact. However, arriving on local screens in the wake of the George Zimmerman verdict, its alternately thoughtful and fraught examination of prejudices becomes all the more devastating.
After opening with cellphone video of the real Oscar Grants shooting, Coogler turns back the clock for a semi-fictionalized account of his last day alive: New Years Eve 2008. Played with an engaging mix of charisma and combustibility by Michael B. Jordan, Oscar is no angel. However, hes desperately looking to redeem himself to his long-suffering girlfriend (Melonie Diaz) and mother (Octavia Spencer). In scenes with his young daughter, we see his capacity for tenderness. And yet, it only takes the slightest provocation to spark his explosive temper.
The New Years Eve setting is ideal for a character whos looking to not f**k up for 30 days. After all, who amongst us hasnt aspired to use the turn of the calendar as a personal turning point? And while were well aware that Oscar will never have the chance to prove his resolve, we nevertheless emotionally invest ourselves in his final hours as he conducts himself as the man he wants to be.
At barely 80 minutes, Fruitvale Station passes in a flash, its sense of purpose and force of will propelling it through some rough patches and suspect decision-making. Which is to say, it perfectly complements the unfortunate character at its heart.
