Directed by Justin Kurzel and featuring the talented Jude Law, Jurnee Smollett, and Tye Sheridan, the riveting police procedural, “The Order” is an impactful reflection of extremist ideologies and social exclusion leading to violent outcomes.
The movie draws inspiration from the real-life narrative, The Silent Brotherhood, as it follows the intense journey of law enforcement agents in the 1980s. The team, consisting of Terry Husk (played by Jude Law), Joanne Carney (Jurnee Smollett), and Jamie Bowen (Tye Sheridan) find themselves tangled in a web of bank robberies, car heists, and counterfeit operations throughout the Pacific Northwest. The connection between these criminal actions and an extremist white supremacist group led by Bob Mathews (played by Nicholas Hoult) unfolds as the plot thickens. Mathews aims to use the procured funds to create a force powerful enough to overthrow the government, while the agents work tirelessly to curtail his operations and bring him to justice.
Kurzel, along with screenwriter Zach Baylin, deftly displays a scenario of how an extremist group's desire for government overthrow can resonate in current times. The movie revolves around the inherent human yearning for companionship and how manipulation can lead to catastrophes.
Throughout the film, the psychological toll on these characters from their work commitment is evident. Jude Law's character, Husk, gives a particular insight into the life of an agent, shedding light on personal sacrifices and impacts on mental and physical health. The film also highlights the power struggle within the institution, and how it can translate into prejudice for women of color within the force.
Indubitably, "The Order" successfully portrays a compelling narrative and sheds light on extremism's disturbing reality in society. From justice missions to power struggles, it brings forward the intricate nuances of institutional life and the sacrifices one makes in pursuit of justice. It also emphasizes the significance of art as a mirror of society, reflecting the times we live in, and inspiring dialogues on uncomfortable yet crucial subjects.
