The Hurricane, released on Jan. 14, 1999, is a powerful and moving biographical drama that tells the true story of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, a former middleweight boxing contender wrongfully convicted of murder.
Denzel Washington delivers a tour-de-force performance, capturing Carter’s indomitable spirit, his unwavering belief in his innocence, and the devastating impact of his wrongful imprisonment. The film masterfully depicts the injustices of the criminal justice system, the power of prejudice, and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
Denzel Washington in The Hurricane (Photo/Universal Pictures)
The Hurricane is not just a boxing story; it’s a powerful social commentary that explores themes of racism, social injustice, and the importance of fighting for truth and justice.
Norman Jewison’s (Moonstruck, The January Man) direction is masterful, creating a film that is both emotionally resonant and visually stunning.
The strong supporting cast includes Vicellous Reon Shannon, Deborah Kara Unger, Liev Schreiber, Dan Hedaya, Clancy Brown (The Shawshank Redemption), David Paymer (The American President, City Slickers, In Good Company), Harris Yulin and Rod Steiger.
Reception for The Hurricane
The Hurricane grossed $9 million on its opening weekend, placing third in the domestic box office behind Next Friday ($14.5 million) starring Ice Cube and Stuart Little ($9.4 million) starring Michael J. Fox (voice) and Geena Davis.
The film would gross $73.96 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film three and a half out of four stars and praised Washington’s performance, saying “This is one of Denzel Washington’s great performances, on a par with his work in Malcolm X,” and added “This is strong stuff, and I was amazed, after feeling some impatience in the earlier reaches of the film, to find myself so deeply absorbed in its second and third acts, until at the end I was blinking at tears.”
The Hurricane has an 82% approval rating at Rotten Tomatoes.
Lasting Legacy
The Hurricane is a powerful and unforgettable film that continues to resonate with audiences today. It’s a testament to the power of the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of fighting for justice.
