Antebellum (2020)

Directed by: Gerard Bush, Christopher Renz | 106 minutes | drama, horror, thriller | Actors: Arabella Landrum, Jena Malone, Eric Lange, Janelle Monáe, Tongayi Chirisa, Achok Majak, Jack Huston, Kiersey Clemons, TC Matherne, Robert Aramayo, Marque Richardson, London Boyce, Gabourey Sidibe, Lily Cowles, Grace Junot

Movies are products of their time. In the 1970s, Vietnam movies and political thrillers were very popular. Think of ‘Apocalypse Now’ and ‘All The President’s Men’. In the 1980s, films about capitalism and the Cold War were blockbusters again, thanks to productions such as ‘Wall Street’ and ‘Red Dawn’. In the twenty-first century, films about the African American community are gaining popularity. For example, ‘Get Out’ was highly regarded – especially since it is a horror film and that is a genre that usually doesn’t do very well with film critics. Later followed the well-received ‘Us’ and the disastrously bad remake of ‘Black Christmas’ in which, in addition to the Black Lives Matter movement, the focus was also on feminism and the cancel culture. ‘Antebellum’ is also marketed as a horror film in which the position of the black community (in America) is highlighted. Slavery is also discussed.

‘Antebellum’ revolves around author Veronica Henley (played by singer Janelle Monáe). This writer finds herself in a ‘strange’ situation to say the least, where her life is at stake. She must take action if she is to survive.

Directing duo Gerard Bush and Christopher Renz have created a film that you should see with as little prior knowledge as possible. The plot is the biggest asset of this film that misleads you and is clearly a big mindfuck. It’s all a bit far-fetched, but if you’re open to a film that doesn’t want to make it too easy for you and wants to make you think about, among other things, the slavery past (of America) and oppression of minorities, then this is a must. ‘Antebellum’ is not a full-blooded horror film, rather a thriller.

In addition to being a strong singer, Monáe also proves to be a solid actress. She knows how to make her character an interesting person and manages to make the audience empathize with Veronica. ‘Antebellum’ is a daring film that may not reach the high level of ‘Us’, but it can stand on its own two feet and become a cult hit just like that.