Percy vs. Goliath

Percy vs. Goliath is a 2020 drama directed by Clark Johnson, starring celebrated actors Christopher Walken, Roberta Maxwell, and Christina Ricci. The film vividly delineates the inspiring story of a little-known Canadian farmer's challenge against giant corporate agribusiness Monsanto Inc., that too, on the battleground of the United States Supreme Court.

Christopher Walken plays the pivotal character - Percy Schmeiser - the protagonist of this compelling saga, who becomes an unlikely beacon in the fight for farmer's rights in the face of corporate monopolies. Walken showcases his impressive acting prowess as he plays the determined farmer who won't back down against the relentless Goliath-like corporation.

Roberta Maxwell delivers an understated but heart-rending performance as Percy's wife Louise Schmeiser, who stands unwaveringly by her husband's side in this daunting battle. The chemistry between Walken and Maxwell is palpable, turning a struggle against a global giant into a deeply personal and emotionally resonating narrative.

Christina Ricci portrays Rebecca Salcau, an activist from Greenpeace who recognizes the enormous implications of Percy's struggle for small farmers everywhere and steps in to offer her support. Ricci’s performance adds another layer to the multi-dimensional conflict and delineates the essential role of environmental organizations in such critical endeavours.

The plot of Percy vs. Goliath gets kindled when Percy Schmeiser, a third-generation farmer, gets sued by a powerful and domineering multinational corporation for supposedly using its genetically modified seeds without a license. The subsequent narrative unravels how Percy, instead of being cowed down by the threatening lawsuit, decides to fight back, thus setting off a monumental legal battle that catches global attention.

The film showcases the suppression of small-scale farmers by huge corporations that often put profit over environmental concerns and human rights. It aims to put across the message that when faced with seemingly insurmountable forces, resistance and resilience can indeed carve a path toward justice.

Johnson's storytelling is steeped in realism: the hardy landscape, rural way of life, and the trials and tribulations of basic farming become the backdrop against which this epic legal battle unfolds. The film therefore does not restrict itself to a legal drama, but also beautifully draws upon the Schmeiser family's personal experiences and relationships, their poignant concern for their inherited farming legacy, and the bitter-sweet victories gained through tireless defiance.

The cinematography of Percy vs. Goliath deserves special mention for vividly capturing the bleak and rugged beauty of rural Manitoba and Saskatchewan, where the drama unfolds. The color palette, dominated by earthy tones and the vast, expansive cinematographic shots, creates atmospheric spaces that act as the canvas for this human drama. The splendidly appropriate sound-design and score further reinforces the intense emotions and high stakes involved in Percy’s crusade.

Screenwriters Garfield Lindsay Miller and Hillary Pryor have done an admirable job portraying a real-life story with its complexities yet not losing the personal touch. Their script delicately balances the crushing weight of a courtroom saga with the light-hearted moments of the Schmeiser family's daily life, creating a memorable viewing experience.

The role played by supporting cast members, with their credible performances infusing authenticity and grounding the conflict in stark reality, shines bright in this film. They portray an array of personalities, from corporate lawyers and judges to fellow farmers and town locals, each adding a unique tinge to the narrative.

Percy vs. Goliath works both as an emotional family drama and a thought-provoking social commentary. With its in-depth exploration of issues like environmental conservation, genetically modified organisms, and corporate ethics, the film gives viewers much to reflect upon long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, Percy vs. Goliath tells the inspiring story of a man who dared to stand against an enormous corporation, seeking justice not just for himself but for small farmers everywhere. With a powerful narrative, strong performances, and eye-catching cinematography, this film serves as an earnest reminder that the fight against corporate greed and power is not easy, but it is indeed worth fighting.