‘The Trial of the Chicago 7’ is entertaining, emotional and exasperating

Photo courtesy of The New York Times

The film “The Trial of the Chicago 7” is expected to be nominated for an Oscar this awards season, and for good reason.

“The Trial of the Chicago 7” tells the story of seven protestors who were part of the 1968 Chicago riots surrounding the Democratic National Convention. The history behind these riots is extensive, and is made complicated by a series of assassinations in the 1960s, the Vietnam War, as well as the rise of “law and order” as a part of the conservative Republican platform at the time. 

The film generally does a good job of introducing what aspects of this history viewers need to know before diving into the actual trial. The Chicago Seven refers to social activists Abbie Hoffman, Jerry Rubin, David Dellinger, Tom Hayden, Rennie Davis, John Froines and Lee Weiner. With them in the courtroom is the chairman and co-founder of the Black Panther Party, Bobby Seale. 

Viewers must keep in mind the fact that some parts of this narrative are fictionalized, as in all historical dramas. Hayden was not as nonviolent as he was portrayed to be, and Fred Hampton did not provide legal guidance to Bobby Seale during the trial. On the other hand, Seale was in fact chained and gagged during the trial (for three days), and the seven did often do things to agitate the judge, such as wearing judicial robes in his courtroom.

The film is equal parts comedic and infuriating. Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin make a mockery of the justice system throughout the trial. This comedic relief breaks up long and convoluted court scenes with sarcasm and absurdity. 

Viewers also feel the frustration of dealing with a biased judge, a political and publicized trial and the justice system itself. The film takes us back in history and illustrates that police brutality toward protestors is not new but instead a long-standing tradition in American history. There are moments of triumph within the courtroom, as well as moments of failure or anger, depending on rulings and as new evidence is provided.

Elements of this movie work together synchronously. The film score, by Daniel Pemberton, elevates moments of despair, suspense or tension. 

The editing, done by Alan Baumgarten, forces the viewer to recall often that this film is a real moment in American history. Baumgarten does this by weaving in actual footage of the Chicago riots with the dramatized film footage. Baumgarten also cuts to moments of the past and memories of the Chicago Seven. Weaving this into the storyline allows viewers to see into the perspective of the members on trial. This back and forth also builds anticipation for dramatic reveals.

The pace and content of the movie itself allow for constant attentiveness and interest, as well as upset and anger.

The film has energy itself, a kind of political energy that comes from an anti-establishment narrative. If you are interested in history, social justice or simply a good movie, “The Trial of the Chicago 7” is one to add to your list.