Review: ‘Black or White’ has the uncomfortable conversations (Includes first-hand account)

Preliminary judgement based on physical traits is virtually engrained in our psyche. When you look at someone, the first thing you notice is their physique, desirability and/or skin colour. No level of education can reverse this process, but as a character in this film suggests, “What matters is your second, third and fourth thought.” Race relations are at the centre of Black or White, but it earnestly explores covert prejudices that many are hesitant to admit and are difficult to eradicate.

Elliot (Kevin Costner) is the loving, Caucasian grandfather of Eloise (Jillian Estell), a mixed race seven-year-old girl. However his wife was her primary care giver, so when she suddenly dies Elliot is at a loss. He drowns his sorrow in alcohol while trying to fill the hole his wife left behind. In the meantime, Rowena (Octavia Spencer), Eloise’s paternal, black grandmother, wants to help fill that void as well — permanently. Eloise’s father (André Holland) is in no condition to take care of her, but Rowena petitions on his behalf in an attempt to obtain full custody. The battle in and out of court is complicated as both grandparents accuse each other of racism while attempting to shield Eloise from becoming a casualty of their tug-of-war.

There is a lot of grey in writer/director Mike Binder’s picture. Neither grandparent is ideal with Elliot’s alcoholism and Rowena’s attention spread across six businesses and the rest of her extended family, but each believe they know what’s best for Eloise and acting with the best of intentions. Furthermore, Rowena’s self-imposed ignorance of her son’s failures is maddening, even if it’s often unclear if all his current behaviour is improper. Though each legal team threatens to throw dirt, the narrative avoids ever making either character the villain even though it has plenty of opportunity to cross the lines of propriety.

At a time when race is once again a hot-button issue, a film that raises uncomfortable but moderate conversations is worth watching. If nothing else, it’s a reminder of how we relate to each other sometimes without even acknowledging it.

Director: Mike Binder
Starring: Kevin Costner, Octavia Spencer and Anthony Mackie

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