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The Best of Enemies

Name: The Best of Enemies
Director: Robin Bissell
Released: 2019
Duration: 133 min

Representation Score

4.7/10

Fair

2019

PG-13

Director

Robin Bissell

Runtime

133 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Best of Enemies is a historical drama that focuses on breaking down systemic social divides. It succeeds by emphasizing the leadership of underrepresented individuals, especially through the lens of Black activism and female leadership during the Civil Rights era. The film's strength lies in its portrayal of racial and gender issues without ignoring race. By showing the tension between institutionalized segregation and grassroots movements, it offers a strong critique of the era's social hierarchies. However, the film's scope is limited. While it excels in depicting racial and gender dynamics, it does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ or disabled communities.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Best of Enemies have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film is set in 1971 North Carolina and does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories that go beyond the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does The Best of Enemies portray gender?

Good

Ann Atwater is a key figure who drives the story forward with her strong leadership and powerful speeches. She challenges the male-dominated power structures of the time.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Best of Enemies?

Excellent

The story focuses on the struggles of Black citizens against white supremacy. Black characters are shown as leaders of social change rather than just being victims.

How does The Best of Enemies represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film highlights the oppressive laws and social norms of the 1970s South. It portrays desegregation as a necessary step to break down a corrupt system.

Does The Best of Enemies include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no significant focus on visible or invisible disabilities in the story.

Present on Screen

Shows Black characters as leaders of social change.
Highlights a strong female protagonist who challenges male-dominated power structures.
Offers a deep critique of systemic institutional racism and social control.

Limited or Absent

Does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or stories.
Does not feature any characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Centers on the unlikely relationship between Ann Atwater, an outspoken civil rights activist, and C.P. Ellis, a local Ku Klux Klan leader who reluctantly co-chaired a community summit, battling over the desegregation of schools in Durham, North Carolina during the racially-charged summer of 1971. The incredible events that unfolded would change Durham and the lives of Atwater and Ellis forever.

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