The order: A chilling dive into the roots of American white supremacy
A haunting encounter on a desolate road
In the gripping docudrama “The Order”, the early days of the modern American white-supremacist movement in the 1980s are brought to life with unsettling realism. One particularly eerie scene unfolds on a secluded country road in Idaho, where two leaders of the movement meet. Richard Butler, portrayed by Victor Slezak, is the founder of the Aryan Nations, a neo-Nazi cult. Despite his extremist views, Butler carries himself with the demeanor of a courtly preacher, strategically political about the growth of his movement.
Opposite him stands Bob Matthews, played by Nicholas Hoult, a former follower who has broken away from Butler. Matthews believes the Aryan Nations aren’t extreme enough and is determined to incite an armed uprising. His group, named “The Order” after the white-supremacist revolutionaries in ”The Turner Diaries,” engages in bombings, robberies, and murders to fund their cause and build an “army” against the U.S. government.
The clash of ideologies
As the FBI, led by the seasoned agent Terry Husk (Jude Law), begins to close in, Butler warns Matthews that his violent tactics are a mistake. Butler envisions a future where their movement infiltrates the political system, while Matthews is fixated on immediate revolution. This ideological clash highlights a disturbing reality: Butler’s vision of mainstreaming white supremacy poses a far greater threat than Matthews’ reckless violence.
A tale of suspense and authenticity
Directed by Justin Kurzel and written by Zach Baylin, “The Order” is a masterful blend of intelligent docudrama and riveting crime story. Kurzel’s direction, complemented by Adam Arkapaw’s cinematography, captures the stark beauty and desolation of the Pacific Northwest. The film’s authenticity is evident in its meticulous attention to detail, from the FBI’s methodical investigation to the gritty realism of the criminals’ actions.
Jude Law delivers a standout performance as Terry Husk, a broken man whose job is his only anchor. His portrayal of Husk, a good cop with bitter, hard-won knowledge, is one of the most searing of his career. Tye Sheridan, as a local officer, provides a clean-cut contrast, embodying the earnestness of a Boy Scout.
The human face of evil
Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal of Bob Matthews is both convincing and chilling. Hoult captures Matthews’ fervent belief in his cause, making him a charismatic yet terrifying figure. Matthews’ personal life, including his relationships with his wife Debbie (Alison Oliver) and mistress Zillah (Odessa Young), adds layers to his character, revealing the entitlement and ruthlessness that drive him.
A cautionary tale for today
“The Order” is not just a historical recount; it serves as a cautionary allegory for contemporary America. The film draws parallels between the rise of white supremacy in the 1980s and the current political climate, marked by the entwined rise of MAGA and Christian nationalism. The movie delves into “The Turner Diaries,” a novel that became the bible of the white-supremacist movement, illustrating how such ideologies can persist and evolve.
The duality of white supremacy
What makes “The Order” particularly haunting is its exploration of the dual nature of white supremacy in America. The film shows how the movement can present a “legal and presentable” face while harboring an underlying violent side. This duality is a stark reminder that the ideologies of figures like Bob Matthews, who met a fiery end for his beliefs, continue to smolder beneath the surface.
For those interested in exploring the film further, you can watch the trailer and find more information on The Order.
“The Order” is a powerful and timely film that sheds light on the dark undercurrents of American history and their lingering impact on the present. Its blend of suspense, authenticity, and insightful commentary makes it a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding the roots and ramifications of white supremacy in America.