Watch Burning Cane

"Burning Cane" from 2019 is a drama film that takes a deep dive into the complicated relationships and struggles of a rural Louisiana community. Directed by Phillip Youmans and executive produced by none other than Benh Zeitlin, the film presents an ensemble cast featuring Wendell Pierce, Karen Kaia Livers, Dominique McClellan, and several others.

At the heart of the story is Helen Wayne (Karen Kaia Livers), a deeply religious and devoted mother who is struggling to take care of her troubled adult son in the wake of her husband's death. Her son, Daniel (Dominique McClellan), is an alcoholic who openly defies her authority and recklessly wanders around the town, creating problems and causing damage.

As the film progresses, we get a sense of the different layers that make up this community. We see how religion is a prominent factor in their lives, how different generations interact with each other, and how people have their own secrets and demons to battle.

Wendell Pierce plays an aging pastor named Reverend Tillman. He is struggling to reconcile his own deep-rooted faith with the hardship and moral dilemmas that his community is facing. His sermons at the local church are a highlight of the movie, as he tries to preach love and forgiveness to the struggling members of his congregation.

The film deals with a variety of themes, including grief and loss, addiction, faith, and the complexities of human relationships. It does so in a way that is both raw and authentic, portraying the characters and their struggles in a deeply nuanced and empathetic manner.

One of the most impressive aspects of "Burning Cane" is how it captures the essence of rural Louisiana. The lush greenery, sweltering heat, and humid atmosphere provide a beautiful backdrop to the story. The cinematography in the film is stunning, with the camera often lingering on the details of everyday life, creating a sense of intimacy and familiarity with the community.

At the same time, the film also has a visceral quality, with several emotionally charged scenes that stay with you long after the credits have rolled. The actors all deliver powerful performances, immersing themselves in their characters' struggles and bringing them to life in a way that feels true to the community that the film is depicting.

In addition, the film also deals with issues such as toxic masculinity and domestic violence that feel particularly relevant in today's society. It portrays these issues with a deep sense of nuance and empathy, showing the different ways that they can manifest themselves and the damage that they can cause.

Overall, "Burning Cane" is a powerful and deeply affecting drama that showcases the talents of some truly exceptional filmmakers and actors. It is a film that stays with you long after you've watched it and demands to be seen by anyone looking to delve into the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of rural communities.