Watch The Ambush Murders

The Ambush Murders, released in 1982, is a gripping drama based on true events that took place in 1973. Directed by Steven Hilliard Stern, the movie features an impressive cast including James Brolin, Dorian Harewood, and Alfre Woodard. The story is set in a small town in Louisiana, where tensions between the black and white communities are high. The town’s police force is predominantly white, and many black residents feel that they are mistreated and harassed by the officers. This volatile situation comes to a head when a group of black militants, known as the Deacons for Defense, arrive in town. They carry guns and are determined to fight back against the police.

The lead character of the movie is Lloyd, played by Dorian Harewood, a black officer who is sent to the town by the FBI to investigate allegations of police brutality. He is immediately met with hostility by both the police and the Deacons. Lloyd forms an alliance with a white officer, Michael, played by James Brolin, and together they try to keep the peace.

The tension between the police and the Deacons escalates when a white officer is found dead, and the Deacons are blamed for the murder. The police launch a manhunt for the Deacons, which turns into a violent confrontation in the woods outside of town. The events that unfold during the ambush are brutal and tragic, leaving both sides reeling.

Alfre Woodard gives a standout performance as the wife of one of the Deacons, who becomes caught up in the violence. Her emotional portrayal of a woman trying to hold her family together amidst the chaos is both powerful and moving.

The Ambush Murders is a thought-provoking movie that raises important questions about race relations and police brutality. The tensions portrayed on screen are unfortunately still relevant today. While the movie is set in the 1970s, it feels timeless in its exploration of the issues at hand.

The direction by Steven Hilliard Stern is masterful, capturing the essence of the small town and the tension that exists within it. The cinematography is stunning, with the lush greenery of Louisiana providing a stunning backdrop to the drama.

The performances by the cast are exceptional. James Brolin delivers a nuanced portrayal of a conflicted white officer, while Dorian Harewood brings a quiet intensity to the role of Lloyd. Alfre Woodard is a standout in her portrayal of a woman caught in the middle of the violence.

Overall, The Ambush Murders is a must-see movie for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of race relations in America. It is a powerful and thought-provoking drama that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The Ambush Murders is a 1982 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.