LOVING

Set in the late 1950’s this film deals with interracial marriage, an extremely sensitive social issue which was unlawful in most American states.

The tragic love story of Richard and Mildred Loving is detailed, an interracial couple from Virginia who faced torment and discrimination, especially from the hands of law-enforcers. They were banished from Virginia and told they would face a prison term if they returned.

They defied the law and their 10 year struggle for equality and acceptance led them to the Supreme Court of Virginia where they argued marriage was a fundamental right. Capturing the attention of Life Magazine, this was ultimately the catalyst for an amendment to the constitution of the United States of America.

An incredibly confronting film headed by Joel Edgerton who delivers one of his finest performances in recent years, plays Richard, a gentle and caring man widely accepted by the black community. Ruth Negga portrays Mildred, his petite and softly spoken wife who is the recipient of most of the torment.

This moving story of a couple’s battle for their civil rights showcases the darkest aspect of a bygone era, which unfortunately is mirrored by today’s society to a lesser extent.

★★★★