Created Equal

Created Equal, released in 2017, is an engaging, provocative, and sophisticated drama that delves into the world of law and religion, resonating with themes of equality, belief, and justice. Directed by Bill Duke, an acclaimed actor and director known for his deft handling of dramatic narratives, and starring Lou Diamond Phillips, Aaron Tveit, and Jo-Ann Robinson, the film offers some riveting performances that will leave the audience captivated.

Lou Diamond Phillips, a renowned actor celebrated for his gripping performances, delivers another stellar portrayal in Created Equal as Monsignor Renzulli. His character, a key figure within the Catholic Church's hierarchy, is caught in the heart of a legal battle that challenges the established norms and practices of the Church. Utilizing his rich experience, Phillips lends emotional depth and sincerity to his character, making his performance an absolute treat to watch.

In contrast, Aaron Tveit, in the role of attorney Tommy Reilly, embodies the relentless spirit of justice with dynamism. Tveit, known for his roles in both theater and film, brings to life Tommy's idealism, struggle, and determination with gusto. His performance illuminates the complexities of professional and moral dilemmas faced by a lawyer in the course of a controversial case.

Jo-Ann Robinson, as Allie Bateman, plays a dynamic female character whose ambitions are limited not by her talents, but by her gender, according to the traditional practices of her religious institution. Robinson's compelling and sensitive performance amplifies Allie's struggles, further igniting the narrative's momentum.

The plot of Created Equal revolves around a highly controversial legal battle. It begins when Allie, a brilliant young woman, gets rejected for a position purely because she is a woman. Displeased and determined, she seeks legal assistance from Tommy Reilly, an equally bold and persistent lawyer in New Orleans, who's not afraid to pick up a fight, even against the mighty Catholic Church.

The gripping narrative presents an intriguing exploration of the fundamental ideas of faith, gender, justice, and equality. Allie's struggle for justice is not merely the pursuit of an unfulfilled ambition; it becomes symbolic of the inherent right to equality, transcendent of any societal, institutional, or religious boundaries.

While the film unfolds its central plot, at the same time, it artfully contrasts different perspectives within the legal and catholic canon. The ensuing courtroom battles not only serve as a classic David vs. Goliath conflict, pitting an individual's quest against a powerful institution but also become a powerful commentary on gender discrimination, structural inadequacies, and power dynamics in organized religions.

Despite the weighty themes, Created Equal is a balanced portrayal of the moral, professional, and political stakes involved within the plot. It integrates drama, conflict, and intellectual discourse without undermining the emotional authenticity of individual characters. Whether that's the stubborn yet sensitive Tommy Reilly or the resilient Allie Bateman, Bill Duke succeeds in keeping the characters human, flawed, and relatable.

The film's technical aspects, from cinematography to editing, match the calibre of its narrative. The visual storytelling complements the dramatic tension, while the music intensifies the emotional impact of the key scenes. Created Equal, apart from being a legal drama, also offers a thought-provoking dialog on gender, hierarchy, tradition, and change.

In conclusion, Created Equal is an intense, insightful, and moving narrative that highlights the perennial quest for equality and justice while offering engaging courtroom drama, earnest performances, and a contemporary discourse on religion and gender. From well-rounded characters to thought-provoking themes, the film promises a compelling watch for fans of legal dramas, gender discourse, and societal commentaries.