Watch The Killing Floor

The Killing Floor is a drama film that was released in 1984. Directed by Bill Duke, the movie is set in the early 1900s, during the time of the Great Migration, when African Americans moved from the South to the North in search of better opportunities. The film follows the story of a black man named Frank Custer, played by Damien Leake, who leaves Mississippi for Chicago in search of work.

Upon arriving in Chicago, Frank finds a job at a meatpacking plant, or a "killing floor" as it is commonly referred to. He becomes friends with a co-worker named Thomas Joshua, played by Alfre Woodard, and together they navigate the difficult and often dangerous working conditions in the plant. The movie depicts their struggles and triumphs as they fight against the oppressive system of labor exploitation and racial discrimination.

The plot intensifies as the workers, led by Frank and Thomas, decide to go on strike to demand better working conditions and wages. This decision sets off a chain of events that ultimately pits the workers against the owners of the plant, who will stop at nothing to maintain their power and control.

Dennis Farina also stars in the film as a corrupt union representative who is in cahoots with the plant owners. His character serves as a powerful antagonist, creating conflict and tension throughout the movie.

The Killing Floor is a powerful and poignant film that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history. It portrays the struggles of African American workers during the early 1900s, highlighting themes of racism, labor exploitation, and social justice. The performances by the cast are stellar, with Damien Leake and Alfre Woodard delivering stand-out performances that are emotional and heartfelt. Duke's direction and the film's cinematography help to create a gritty atmosphere that immerses the viewer in the world of the film.

Overall, The Killing Floor is a must-watch for those interested in American history, social justice, and powerful storytelling. The film serves as a reminder of the struggles that African Americans faced during this time period, and the hard-won victories that were achieved through determination, courage, and perseverance.

The Killing Floor is a drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.