Watch Against The Wall

Against The Wall is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores one of the most significant periods in US history - the Attica prison riots of 1971. Directed by John Frankenheimer and released in 1994, the movie features an all-star cast, including Kyle MacLachlan, Samuel L. Jackson, and Clarence Williams III. The story revolves around the infamous uprising that took place at the Attica Correctional Facility in upstate New York in September 1971. The film takes us on a journey through the events that led to the riot, the brutal crackdown by the authorities, and the subsequent fallout.

The film's central character is Michael Smith (played by Kyle MacLachlan), a new, naive, and recently appointed prison guard who becomes embroiled in the rebellion. When the inmates seize control of the prison, Michael finds himself among the hostages held by the prisoners.

As the situation unfolds, Michael is forced to confront the harsh realities of the prison system and its inherent flaws. He is drawn into the political and social struggles that have led the prisoners to revolt and begins to sympathize with their cause.

Meanwhile, the authorities are trying to figure out how to regain control of the prison. The governor of the state, played by Harry Dean Stanton, orders the National Guard to storm the prison, which only exacerbates the situation. The prisoners' demands for better treatment and basic human rights are ignored, and the tragic consequences of the siege are heartbreaking.

As the standoff between the inmates and the law enforcement agencies became more and more tense and violent, it becomes evident that a peaceful resolution is unlikely. Caught in the middle of the chaos, Michael must make a choice that will affect the outcome of the rebellion and change the course of his life.

Samuel L. Jackson delivers an outstanding performance as Jamal, one of the leaders of the rebellion. The genius of Jackson's acting lies in portraying Jamal's revolutionary spirit, intense anger, and profound humanity, no matter how devastating the situation becomes.

Against The Wall is a poignant reflection on the human cost of power struggles and misguided authority. It's a film that brings into sharp focus the harsh realities of the prison system, and the racial and social inequalities that are at the root of so many of these issues.

The movie also draws attention to the obstacles that those who refuse to surrender their dignity and humanity face, even when the odds are against them. The Attica prison riot was one of the most significant moments in the history of the prison system, and this film offers a poignant reminder of the innocent lives that were damaged or lost as a result.

The cinematography of the movie is also noteworthy, as it captures the tension and desperation of inmates and guards alike in stark and often bone-chilling detail. The camera takes us inside the walls of the prison, giving us a glimpse of life behind bars and the loneliness and hopelessness that often plagues the inmates.

In conclusion, Against The Wall is a tour-de-force and a must-watch film for anyone interested in the issues of social justice, prison reform, and the erosion of human rights. The performances of the lead cast are particularly noteworthy, and the film's story is impactful and evocative. Against the Wall is a classic piece of cinema, and its message remains as important today as it was when the Attica prison riots first took place.

Against The Wall is a 1994 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.