Skip to main content

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Monster (2018)

What is it about? 

A young black boy with a bright future experiences his world thrown upside down as he is put on trial for murder. We follow his journey through the complex trial. 

Who is in it? 

Kelvin Harrison Jr. - Steve Harmon 

ASAP Rocky - James King

John David Washington - Richard "Bobo" Evans

Favorite Scene: 

Steve and his lawyer discuss his options after it is apparent that he needs to tell his truth. 

Favorite Quote: 

"You want to know the difference between innocent and guilty? Standing on your own truth."

Review: 

Monster was another "My List" watch from Netflix, and one that I have honestly overlooked for a while. Why? Simply because movies about young black boys who can have their lives upended for no fault of their own, or mere circumstance, can at times feel too close to home for me.

Regardless, I'm glad I allowed myself to be immersed in this story because Monster is a film that encapsulates so much within our society. The young black kid who is talented comes from a good home and has a bright future stereotyped and judged. The innocence of kids and the neighborhoods of strife. And a system that doesn't do much for them in due process. 

The label of calling the suspects "Monsters" based on nothing more than allegations is a provoking point for the film. 

The best part about the film are the flashbacks mixed with the narration from Steve.

Kelvin Harrison - first time seeing him in anything - was really good. And let's give ASAP Rocky his due as well - very believable. 

A good film if you want to feel, and have some inner discussion on the real world. 

Grade: 3/5

Labels:

Recently Read

Quick Ponder: Future Self

We always think,  what would we say  to our  younger self? However,  what would  our younger self say  if they met us, today?
Read more

Predictions and Wild Guesses for the 2025 MLB Season

Well, after that off-season where the Dodgers deferred enough money to build the Athletics a new ballpark, it's time for the remaining fanbases who don't have Guggenheim money to hope for the best. Even with Opening Day finally here, it's the only time of the year we can actually pretend everyone has a chance, and hope feels, well, somewhat authentic.  White Sox fans, how are we feeling?  As we do every year around these parts, I'm throwing out some predictions and wild guesses for the upcoming MLB 2025 season.  Good luck, White Sox.  --- STANDINGS (WIN) AL EAST  Yankees - 92 Red Sox - 90 Orioles - 88 Rays - 85 Blue Jays - 82 AL CENTRAL Royals - 90 Tigers - 90 Guardians - 88 Twins - 87 White Sox - 65 AL WEST Rangers - 92 Astros - 92 Athletics - 86 Mariners - 85 Angels - 77 NL EAST Phillies - 94 Mets - 92 Braves - 88 Nationals - 78 Marlins - 75 NL CENTRAL Cubs - 88 Brewers - 88 Reds - 87 Pirates - 83 Cardinals - 80 NL WEST Dodgers - 96 Diamondbacks - 90 Padres - ...
Read more

Knicks Back in ECF Causing Catharsis

I've certainly shared my emotions and thoughts regarding the New York Knicks on this site over the years. There have been plenty of those to sort through - most of them are rants. Tonight, the New York Knicks ultimately destroyed the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals, 119-81. I sat on my couch, afraid to allow myself to feel joy until that final buzzer. As a Knicks fan, I've been through too much to allow myself to do anything else, to make any assumption, until it was final. Until it was confirmed. Until something couldn't fall through...the way we're used to.  Once it was final, it was unreal.  The New York Knicks are in the Eastern Conference Finals. For the first time since 2000.  I was 15 years old the last time that happened. And that was a run with a squad that I consider (still) to be my favorite Knicks team of all-time.  I sat on my couch with all sorts of feelings. My wife was likely trying to understand the moment. My son, exci...
Read more