IMDB: Based on the true story of the events that led to the death of Kenneth Chamberlain Sr., an elderly African American veteran with bipolar disorder, who was killed during a conflict with police officers who were dispatched to check on him.
“They are here ’cause they want to hurt me.”
Kenneth Chamberlain
Those are words muttered by Kenneth Chamberlain while talking to a medical alert individual on the phone with cops sitting just outside his door. He set off his life alert by accident and tries to explain that to the cops or anyone that will listen. As Chamberlain struggles with what to do next, the cops become increasingly more aggressive at his front door.
This story is powerful and director David Midell understands that. He’s able to translate that to the big screen in a brilliant way. It’s filmed in a claustrophobic way that puts viewers right in the heart of the story as it unfolds. Garrett Beelow and King Luck’s score only adds to that – keeping us on the edge of our seats.
Frankie Faison plays Chamberlain in one of the most powerful performances I’ve ever seen. This difficult role was a challenge for many reasons, including, the lengthy dialogue throughout. Faison was inside this apartment for an hour and a half, dealing with a wide range of emotions while bringing this tragedy to life. There’s one standout moment of the film when Chamberlain breaks down. Faison’s ability to deliver those lines brought me to my knees. It was one of the most emotional moments I’ve ever seen in any film. Ever.
No one was indicted or charged in connection to the death of Kenneth Chamberlain Sr.
As we reach the film’s final moments, the story becomes more difficult to watch. But it’s such an important story to see. The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain is one of the most important pieces of film you will watch this year.
