Jude Law’s riveting performance in ‘The Order’ captivates Venice
A night to remember at the Venice Film Festival
Jude Law’s portrayal of an FBI agent battling neo-Nazi terrorists in Justin Kurzel’s crime thriller, The Order, left an indelible mark at the Venice Film Festival. The film’s premiere was met with a seven-minute standing ovation, a testament to its powerful narrative and compelling performances.
Before the screening, Law, exuding charisma in a black shirtless suit, delighted fans with selfies on the Palazzo del Cinema red carpet. As the film concluded, the audience’s applause was so overwhelming that it continued even as Law, Kurzel, and co-stars Nicholas Hoult, Tye Sheridan, and Jurnee Smollett exited the theater, waving to the still-cheering crowd.
A story rooted in reality
The Order is based on true events from 1983 Idaho. The plot follows a solitary FBI agent who uncovers a series of violent bank robberies and car heists. These crimes are orchestrated by a group of dangerous domestic neo-Nazi terrorists, led by the radical Robert Jay Mathews, portrayed by Hoult. The film is an adaptation of the 1989 book The Silent Brotherhood by Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt, and also features Sheridan, Smollett, Alison Oliver, and Odessa Young.
For more details, you can watch the trailer for The Order.
The film’s pressing relevance
During the film’s press conference, Law emphasized the importance of the film in today’s context, especially with the resurgence of far-right ideologies. “Sadly, the relevance speaks for itself,” he remarked. ”It felt like a piece of work that needed to be made now. It’s always interesting finding a piece from the past that has some relevant relationship to the present day.”
Director Kurzel highlighted the film’s contemporary significance by referencing the events of January 6, 2021. “On January 6, 2021, nooses were hung in front of the Capitol Building imitating a fictional insurrection from the 1970’s novel The Turner Diaries, the first master plan for domestic terrorism in America,” Kurzel stated. He described The Order as “a manhunt into the depths of that hate, a foreshadowing of a divided America, a warning shot of what has been and what may come.”
A return to Venice
Law’s return to Venice is notable, having previously attended for the satirical series The Young Pope in 2016. Hoult, too, has a history with the festival, dating back to his role in the 2009 film A Simple Man alongside Colin Firth.
Upcoming release
The Order is set for a U.S. release in December by Vertical, while Amazon Prime Video will distribute the film in multiple international territories.
Personal reflections
As a cinema enthusiast, witnessing the evolution of Jude Law’s career has been nothing short of fascinating. From his early roles to his recent performances, Law consistently brings depth and nuance to his characters. The Order is no exception. The film’s exploration of domestic terrorism and far-right extremism is both timely and necessary, offering a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked hate.
For those who appreciate intense, thought-provoking cinema, The Order is a must-watch. Its blend of historical context and contemporary relevance makes it a powerful piece of storytelling that resonates on multiple levels.
In the realm of TV series, it’s worth noting how shows like The Young Pope have allowed actors like Law to explore complex characters in long-form narratives. This trend of high-quality television series has enriched the viewing experience, providing audiences with more in-depth character development and intricate plotlines.
For music lovers, the film’s score, though not detailed here, is likely to complement its intense narrative. Exploring the soundtrack on platforms like Spotify can enhance the overall experience, providing a deeper connection to the film’s emotional landscape.
The Order is a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought and discussion. Its premiere at the Venice Film Festival is just the beginning of what promises to be a significant impact on audiences worldwide.