Reviewed by Angelene Fisher
Denzel Washington does a compelling job as boxer Rubin "Hurricane" Carter. After many years in a detention center for youthful delinquents, Hurricane's short lived freedom ends with his arrest for the murders of three whites in Paterson, New Jersey. He is framed and convicted for a crime he didn't commit. Sentenced for three-life times in prison, he writes a book giving his story and asserting his innocence. Years later a 16-year-old black youth (played by Vicellous Reon Shannon) from Toronto buys the book at a used book sale. He is convinced of Carter's innocence and works with his three friends to find the evidence that frees Hurricane.
Denzel Washington does a good job of portraying Carter. A highlight is his portrayal of the "Hurricane" in the prison hole, where the prisoner's good and bad selves debate. The movie contains swearing and violence, but these add to the authenticity of the character rather than detracting from it. Warning: This movie may leave you emotionally drained and cause you to do some serious reflecting about racism and the fairness of the justice system. At least it did for me.