‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ is a 2021 American biographical drama film produced and directed by Shaka King, that tells the real-life story of Fred Hampton, the chairman of the Black Panther Party and William O’Neal, an FBI informant who was blackmailed into collecting and providing information about Fred Hampton and the Black Panther Party in the late 1960’s.

The African American struggle against racism and oppression has a confronting history. Cinema has the opportunity to explore the stories and experiences of African Americans, since the inception of America to the modern day but rarely do they. Films centered on Martin Luther King, Malcom X and Muhammad Ali recounted the triumphs and the pride for the cause of overcoming racial prejudice and thought-provoking pieces such as 12 Years a Slave allowed the 21st Century audience a glimpse into the dark past of black slavery in America. Not only were these stories for entertainment but for the African American community, an opportunity to connect with the racial history and the events that moved the nation and the world towards black equality.

The film begins with William O’Neal, better known as “Bill” (portrayed by Lakeith Stanfield) attempting to steal a car while impersonating an authority figure but was caught and arrested not long after. FBI agent Roy Mitchell (Jesse Plemons) interviews him and gives him a choice to either face jail time, or become an informant for the FBI, join the Black Panther Party to infiltrate and collect information and if successful, will have the charges dropped and be compensated.

While a part of the Black Panthers, audiences will see Bill’s morals, loyalty and greed be tested as the film then introduces Fred Hampton. Daniel Kaluuya’s portrayal illustrates the Black Panther chairman’s hard work and dedication to bring awareness to the corruption in the city by the government and law enforcement, promotion of equal opportunity to the black community and the desperation people will go to when push comes to shove. As the Black Panther’s reputation grows, they form alliances with rival gangs, militia groups, and even a group of Confederates. This really shows the confidence and influence of Fred Hampton’s leadership, as the numbers build up after realising, they all have a common enemy and a common goal. The FBI and Chicago Police Department see this as a national threat and decide to act, which leads to some of the most significant events of American history.

JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH | DANIEL KALUUYA (right) as Chairman Fred Hampton

The film does a great job in portraying Chicago during the late 60’s, from the sets, cars, fashion, and especially the outfits worn by the Black Panthers and other gangs who were kitted up with some military gear, guns, and military berets. Wearing the same clothes and colours gave the Black Panthers their identity and helped distinguish them from other factions. The film’s score was composed by Mark Isham and Craig Harris and includes original songs such as “Cointelpro/Dec 4” by Fred Hampton Jr (the real son of Fred Hampton) and “Fight for You” by H.E.R. as well as various other artists, who’s music all really complements the tone of the movie.

During the production, Fred Hampton’s actual girlfriend Deborah Johnson (today known as Akua Njeri and portrayed in the film by Dominique Fishback) and their son Fred Hampton Jr were consulted and even brought on set to help recreate some of the most significant events, to give audiences a very confronting and scarily accurate piece of African American history. Dominique’s portrayal of Deborah/Akua really showed the strong and determined woman she was, even during moments that would emotionally destroy even the toughest of people. Today Akua Njeri and Fred Hampton Jr continue to work as activists fighting for equal rights bring awareness to the mistreatment of the black community.

Actual footage from Fred Hampton’s speeches and the William O’Neal interview from 1989, was also used in the film and are highly recommended for viewers to look up and learn more even more about the story.

Judas and the Black Messiah is not for the faint of heart, as it does not hold back on the gritty violence and traumatic events that really detail how cruel, ugly and unforgiving the world can be, which a lot of people take for granted. Even with a few minor changes from the original story, African American history is done a service with this biographical film. For those familiar with the Black Panther Party, it is a rewarding experience to see the events brought to life with the talented cast, cinematography, and soundtrack. Viewers unfamiliar with the story will be transported back in time and learn the turbulent story of FBI informant William O’Neal and Black Panther Party Chairman, Fred Hampton.

Written by: Sammy Hanson