A man who needs no introduction

What do ‘The Social Network’, ‘Molly’s Game’, ‘A Few Good Men’, ‘Steve Jobs’, ‘The West Wing’, ‘The Newsroom’, ‘Moneyball’, and ‘The American President’ all have in common? They all had the same man in the writer’s chair: Aaron Sorkin. 

Aaron Sorkin is one of the most acclaimed screenwriters in Hollywood. He has won an Oscar, an Emmy, and a Golden Globe. With all of that under his belt, Sorkin’s latest project is sure to be an awards contender as well. 

‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ was written and directed by Sorkin. It tells the story of the 1969 trial where seven men were charged with conspiracy by the federal government. This of course arising from the protests in Chicago in 1968 during the Democratic National Convention. Much like Sorkin’s past works, ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ is a well crafted, exceptionally written, and acted film. 

Spectacular Story

The story is told exquisitely. Oftentimes if you are ever bored during a movie, it is because the pacing is off. You will not have to worry about that here. The viewer is constantly on the edge of their seat to see what will unfold next. Actual footage of the event is sprinkled throughout the movie as well, and yet it does not distract from the film or feel out of place. Nonfiction events can sometimes struggle at translating historical events to the screen. That being said, ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ does it flawlessly.

Wonderful Writing

Sometimes when I say a movie has good writing, I say it has “Aaron Sorkin” level writing. So naturally, this film does very well in this area. Characters all have a distinct voice and are all interesting. Dialogue is swift, articulate, and powerful.  Comedic moments do not feel forced. For the most part, this is a thrilling drama telling the story of a court case. 

Sacha Baron Cohen everyone!

Let’s talk about the acting because it needs to be talked about. The ensemble has so many stars, it actually blows my mind. Joseph Gordon Levitt, Eddie Redmayne, Mark Rylance, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Michael Keaton, and Sacha Baron Cohen are all in this film and they all shine. Moreover, Mark Rylance, a Hollywood veteran, is incredible as defense attorney William Kunsler. At the same time, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II makes his case for Best Supporting Actor.

However, if there is a performance in this film that requires recognition, it is none other than Borat himself: Sacha Baron Cohen. He is often disregarded because of his comedic roles and personas, but Sacha Baron Cohen is a phenomenal actor and his talent is on full display in this film. As Abbie Hoffman, he steals the show in every scene he is a part of. Much like the audience in the film, you cannot help but root for him. This is an Oscar-worthy performance that is in the midst of other great performances, similar to that of Jesse Eisenberg in ‘The Social Network’.

The Verdict

‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ is what a nonfiction film should be. It tells the story of a significant and relevant event in a way that is fitting and entertaining. This movie does pretty much everything right and it deserves every bit of praise coming its way. I am talking about you, Sacha Baron Cohen.