Age: 8 years
GRS Rating: 4 of 5

Notable Cast:

Matthew McConaughey Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Duration: 2 hr, 20 min
Infractions: Murder

Comments: A Southern farmer leaves the Confederate army to help defend the helpless left behind in his State. Newton Knight becomes the leader of a pocket of resistance in southeast Mississippi. Backed by a large following, this man eventually leads them to eject the Confederate army from three Mississippi counties, declaring them the Free State of Jones. Jones refers to the central county. This new State is founded on basic principles of equality, including the abolition of slavery. But the Union is reluctant to support them and they retreat to the swamps. Surely, the victory of the Northern armies will bring a change?

This film started in such a way that I thought it was just a ripoff of the guerilla warfare in The Patriot. Fortunately, this film grew deeper. Yes, the murder of the Confederate officer was a bit too much; however, it also marked an important step in the exploration of the central character. The film is clearly political. That doesn't mean that it is not entertaining. Overall, I'd say this movie is a fair tribute to a very good man.