Rubin Carter was born on May 6, 1937, in Clifton, New Jersey. He grew up in a challenging environment, facing the harsh realities of poverty and racism. Despite these obstacles, Carter found solace and purpose in boxing. His talent in the ring earned him the nickname "Hurricane" and he quickly became a contender for the middleweight championship. However, his promising career was abruptly derailed.
Denzel Washington gives a powerful performance in the film, capturing the essence of Carter's character, his resilience, determination and unwavering spirit in the face of great adversity. The film not only depicts his struggles in the prison system, but also the emotional pain of being stripped of his freedom and dignity. "The Hurricane" goes into detail about Carter's wrongful conviction, highlighting the flaws in the legal system that allowed such a wrongful conviction to occur. The film depicts how an all-white jury convicted Carter based on questionable evidence and unreliable witness testimony.
The film also introduces the audience to John Artis, played by Liev Schreiber, a young Carter admirer who became his staunch ally. Artis was also wrongfully convicted along with Carter, and their relationship becomes a major theme in the story. The depiction of their friendship emphasizes the importance of unity and support in the fight against injustice. As the film progresses, we witness the tireless efforts of Carter's supporters who refused to give up on him. Among them is Lesra Martin, a young man inspired by Carter's story and dedicated to helping him get released.
The film does a great job of showcasing the grassroots movement that arose in support of Carter, highlighting the diverse group of individuals who rallied around him: activists, lawyers, and ordinary citizens. Their collective efforts culminated in a renewed push for justice that ultimately led to Carter's exoneration after nearly 30 years of wrongful imprisonment. At its core, "The Hurricane" is a story about resilience and the relentless pursuit of truth. It emphasizes the importance of standing up against injustice, no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem.