Justin Kurzel’s latest cinematic venture, “The Order,” has made a striking debut at the prestigious Venice Film Festival, capturing the audience’s hearts and minds at the Sala Grande and earning a near 10-minute standing ovation. The film’s world premiere was a star-studded event, with director Kurzel accompanied by leading actors Jude Law, Nicholas Hoult, Tye Sheridan, and Jurnee Smollett. As the applause resonated through the gallery, the cast’s shared embrace highlighted the emotional impact of their work.
Set against the rugged backdrop of the 1980s Pacific Northwest, “The Order” is a gripping crime thriller that delves into a harrowing series of bank robberies and car heists. These criminal activities place local communities on edge, with Jude Law shining in his role as an FBI agent tasked with uncovering the truth behind the wave of chaos. Law’s character, whose pursuit for justice is relentless, begins to suspect that these crimes are more than just financially motivated. His investigation leads him to a dangerous domestic terrorist faction, the white supremacist gang known as “The Order,” ominously led by Nicholas Hoult’s character.
The narrative draws inspiration from the 1989 non-fiction book “The Silent Brotherhood” by Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt, presenting a poignant examination of the era’s intense clash between law enforcement and far-right extremists. The film navigates through complex themes of ideology and violence, reflecting not just historical but contemporary tensions.
During the day, prior to the film’s electrifying premiere, Nicholas Hoult and Jude Law addressed the press, shedding light on their approach to their characters. Hoult disclosed an interesting production detail: he and Law deliberately avoided interacting during the initial four weeks of filming to intensify the on-screen tension between their characters. This method acting choice added a layer of authenticity to their performances, a testament to the dedication and craftwork of the actors.
Jude Law also took this opportunity to speak on the film’s profound relevance. “Sadly, the relevance speaks for itself. It felt like a piece of work that needed to be made now,” Law remarked, hinting at the film’s reflection on the present-day societal landscape. His sentiments were echoed by director Justin Kurzel, who emphasized that the themes of “The Order” traverse beyond American borders, resonating globally, including in his native Australia.
. “The divisions and dangerous ideologies depicted in the film are not just an American problem; they are a worldwide issue,” Kurzel noted.
The palpable excitement at the festival was further amplified by sightings of the stars on the coveted red carpet. The Lido was abuzz with activity, as fans and film enthusiasts gathered, hoping to catch a glimpse of Law, Hoult, and the rest of the cast. The social media buzz, captured via hashtags like #BiennaleCinema2024 and #Venezia81, added to the evening’s glamour and significance.
In addition to its profound themes and compelling storytelling, the film also boasts a stellar cast. Jurnee Smollett, known for her versatility and powerful screen presence, along with Tye Sheridan, whose performances continue to evolve with each role, perfectly round out the ensemble. Their combined talents bring depth to the narrative, ensuring that “The Order” is not just another crime thriller, but a poignant commentary on historical and contemporary issues.
“The Order” is set for a major U.S. release in December, with Amazon Prime Video slated to handle its distribution across various international markets. This wide availability ensures that the film’s critical message will reach a global audience, sparking conversations around the issues it so boldly addresses.
Reflecting on the film’s journey, it’s clear that “The Order” is poised to make a significant impact both in cinema and societal discourse. From its initial moments on screen to the prolonged applause that followed, the film’s premiere at Venice solidified its status as a must-watch of the year. The combination of Kurzel’s directorial vision and the powerful performances from Law, Hoult, Sheridan, and Smollett create a riveting experience that will linger in the minds of audiences well beyond the festival.
As the Venice Film Festival continues to spotlight groundbreaking cinema, “The Order” stands out not just for its thrilling plot and stellar cast, but for the essential conversations it sparks about extremism, authority, and the human condition, making it a defining cinematic piece of 2024.
