THE BIRTH OF A NATION from FOX SEARCH LIGHT. According to "Box Office Mojo" that tracks box office theater receipts. "Nation" grabbed $7 million in ticket sales over its' opening weekend. The production budget climbed to $10 million. Fox Searchlight bought the distribution rights for $17.5 million. Critics are saying the film halted ticket buyers after the 1999 rape allegations surfaced of its' star Nate Parker. I bought advance tickets and went to see it last Friday evening. It looks to break even and/or surpass the $10 million mark next weekend.
"Nation" is based on the true story of Nat Turner who led a slave rebellion back in 1831 that killed 60 White family members. Nat grew up to become a literate slave who preached the words from the Bible. He is asked to preach to other slaves and see's the degradation of his people. He uses the Bible to seek inspiration to rise up and lead a rebellion to freedom. Just like "Moses" who asks God, "Why haven't you heard the cries of your people in bondage." Nat was later killed along with 200 other black slaves.
Nate Parker served as co-writer, director and lead actor in "Nation." It certainly was his moment to shine as Nat Turner because it was his journey. Parker may receive an Oscar nomination as Best Actor. Turner's belief in God and words from the Bible gave him purpose. He was destined, it seems, to lead that rebellion. It was for freedom that every slave dreampt of, but only for a brief moment. It was very powerful. The supporting cast were just that, "supporting." Jackie Earl-Haley was impressive though and so was Armie Hammer.
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