Out of Liberty (2019) Movie Review
Out of Liberty (2019), directed by Garrett Batty, takes audiences to a harrowing moment in American history. Set against the stark, frozen landscape of 1839 Missouri, the film tells a powerful story of survival, justice, and the moral complexities faced by its characters. With its slow-burn intensity, Out of Liberty proves that the greatest battles often unfold in the most confined of spaces.
The Story: A Jailhouse on the Brink of Chaos
In Out of Liberty, we are transported to the frontier town of Liberty, Missouri, where a small, yet tense, drama plays out within the confines of a jailhouse. Jailer Samuel Tillery (Jasen Wade) is tasked with overseeing Joseph Smith (Brandon Ray Olive), the leader of the Latter-day Saints, along with his followers. Smith has been accused of treason, and the political storm surrounding him is threatening to erupt into violence. The Missouri militia demands swift executions, while the imprisoned men hold on to a slim hope for justice as they await trial.
Tillery, a man of principles, finds himself caught in the crossfire between duty and conscience. The film uses the confined setting of the jailhouse to great effect, creating a sense of isolation and mounting tension. As winter sets in, not only does the weather grow colder, but the stakes get higher. The lines between captor and captive blur, and Tillery’s internal struggle becomes the heart of the film.
Performances That Carry the Weight
The performances in Out of Liberty are remarkable, particularly that of Jasen Wade as Samuel Tillery. Wade skillfully captures the inner conflict of a man caught between his sworn duty and his growing doubts about the justice of his actions. He brings a quiet intensity to the role, and his portrayal of a lawman grappling with moral dilemmas feels authentic and compelling.
Brandon Ray Olive’s portrayal of Joseph Smith is equally notable. Smith, a figure caught in a turbulent moment of American history, is portrayed with a mix of quiet dignity and an unyielding commitment to his faith. The dynamic between Wade and Olive anchors the film, making the audience feel every moment of tension and empathy between them.
The Themes: Faith, Persecution, and Justice
At its core, Out of Liberty is about much more than just historical events—it is a meditation on faith, persecution, and justice. The film explores how people can be forced into impossible situations, where their beliefs and morals are tested in ways they never imagined. The theme of freedom, not just as a concept, but as a fight, resonates throughout the film.
The tensions between the militia and the prisoners serve as a backdrop for these larger ideas. While the film is set against the backdrop of real historical events, it transcends the specifics of its time period to offer a timeless commentary on the human condition. The isolation of the jailhouse becomes a metaphor for the isolation of the soul when faced with moral dilemmas.
The Cinematography: Capturing the Bleak Isolation
The cinematography in Out of Liberty plays a significant role in heightening the atmosphere of the film. The bleakness of the Missouri winter is captured with breathtaking precision, emphasizing the harshness of the environment and the emotional isolation of the characters. The cold, unforgiving landscape mirrors the internal conflicts the characters face, creating a haunting visual symmetry.
The Verdict: A Thought-Provoking Drama
Out of Liberty is a slow-burning, character-driven drama that digs deep into the nature of faith, justice, and survival. The tension in the film builds not just through external conflicts, but through the internal struggles of its well-crafted characters. With standout performances, especially from Jasen Wade, and a thought-provoking narrative, the film is a must-watch for those who appreciate historical dramas that explore the complexities of the human spirit.
Garrett Batty’s direction, combined with the poignant cinematography, creates an immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll. This is a film that will challenge your perceptions of justice and freedom, leaving you with much to ponder.
