A Nation - The Birth Of

Directed by, written by, and starring Nate Parker, this film tells the story of Nat Turner, an enslaved man and preacher who led a bloody slave rebellion in 1831 Virginia.

The title refers to two vastly different films in American cinema history: the 1915 silent epic directed by D.W. Griffith and the 2016 biographical drama directed by Nate Parker. Reviews for both are detailed below. The Birth of a Nation (2016) The Birth of a Nation

Directed by D.W. Griffith, this silent film is considered one of the most influential and controversial films ever made. Directed by, written by, and starring Nate Parker,

Its release is credited with reviving the then-dormant Ku Klux Klan and fueling decades of racial violence and voter suppression. 1915 Film 2016 Film Subject Civil War & KKK "Heroism" Nat Turner's Rebellion Technical Merit Groundbreaking Innovation Conventional but Searing Primary Theme White Supremacy Resistance to Oppression Reception Acclaimed (Technically) / Hated (Morally) Generally Favorable / Controversial Reviews for both are detailed below

Critics generally praised the film for its powerful message and Nate Parker’s committed performance. It holds a 72% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes with a consensus that its "sheer conviction" overcomes narrative flaws. Strengths:

Described as a "punch to the gut," the film doesn't shy away from the horrific realities of slavery.

It is widely viewed as a technical masterpiece that is "morally repugnant". Critics often describe it as a "great film that argues for evil".