Created Equal: Clarence Thomas In His Own Words

Created Equal: Clarence Thomas In His Own Words is a compelling and intimate documentary that acutely explores the life and career of the Supreme Court Justice, Clarence Thomas. Over a period of an hour and fifty-five minutes, the movie, which was released in 2020, delves into Justice Thomas's life journey, allowing viewers a glimpse into the poignant life of one of the most influential yet divisive figures in American judicial history.

The movie is narrated by Thomas himself, lending an authenticity to his story and creating a direct connection between the subject and the audience. The narrative begins in his childhood, illuminating the hardships and trials that young Thomas faced growing up poor and black in the segregated South. Starting from his birth in Pin Point, Georgia, his early education by nuns, and his tumultuous relationship with his grandfather, viewers can appreciate the remarkable trajectory of Thomas's life.

Just as the movie highlights the personal aspects of Thomas's life, it also deftly investigates his professional journey leading to his appointment as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. His time studying in Yale and working under various government administrations exhibits the indomitable spirit which carried him throughout his personal and professional life and became the hallmark of his career.

A significant portion of the film is devoted to discussing his controversial confirmation hearings, the most notorious chapter of his career. Accusations of sexual harassment by former colleague Anita Hill and the resulting media frenzy opened up a national dialogue about race, gender, and power. This documentary revisits these moments, while including vintage footage and testimonies from various characters including Joe Biden, the head of the Senate Judiciary Committee at the time - making the spectators privy to a first-hand recounting of the hearings.

Piecing together each element of his life story, the movie expounds upon the roots and origination of Thomas's political conservative ideologies. Through its adept weaving of narrative and archival footage, the film charts his ideological transformation from radical student to conservative stalwart. His concepts of self-reliance, individual freedom, and the power of hard work are all explored in depth.

Aside from dissecting his judicial philosophy, the documentary illustrates the dichotomy between Clarence Thomas and the modern liberal African American narrative. His allure as a political figure lies mainly in his conservative stances and lifetime appointment which directly shape life in the United States, making him a figure of scrutiny, vilification, and admiration. In capturing this essence, the film invites viewers to think critically about Thomas's place in history and the nature of his influence on American politics and society.

While the movie is a biographical documentary, it's also an analysis of the temperament and demeanor of one of America's most prominent legal minds. As Thomas narrates his own story, viewers are granted access to the Justice's feelings, thoughts, and emotions throughout various stages of his life. This humanizes him, thrusting beyond the public face of the man and into his inner world.

Moreover, the movie tackles the misconceptions and controversies surrounding Justice Thomas. It paints a picture of a man who had to constantly grapple with his identity as a black conservative in America. It shows the resilience of a man who didn't relent in the face of adversity but continued to strive for his belief in strict constitutional interpretation.

Creater Equal: Clarence Thomas In His Own Words is directed by Michael Pack, a director and producer known for his insightful political documentaries. Pack masterfully uses a compilation of interviews, political debates, and media footage to create a multi-dimensional portrayal of Justice Thomas's life. It's an invitation to listen, without external narrative or preemptive judgment, to the life story of a pivotal figure in America's highest court.

This movie is far more than just a visual biography of Clarence Thomas. It is a deep dive into the life and times of a significant figure in American history whose influence stretches far beyond the judiciary. It's a thought-provoking examination of race, power, adversity, and resilience carried out through the experiences of an often misunderstood character. For viewers who are curious about legal history, politics, or the enduring human spirit, Created Equal: Clarence Thomas In His Own Words offers an enlightening blend of all three. Whether you agreed or disagreed with his stances, this film compels you to understand who he is, and why he is who he is.