Summary

The Burial is a captivating film that tells the inspiring story of a small business owner’s fight against a corporate giant, highlighting themes of justice and greed. The film seamlessly blends humor, heartwarming family moments, and intense courtroom drama, making it a compelling watch for all audiences. Jamie Foxx delivers a standout performance, showcasing his range and chemistry with co-star Tommy Lee Jones, while the supporting cast also shines in their scene-stealing roles.

Screenwriters in Hollywood always amaze me when they find the most obscure and peculiar stories based on true events to adapt into film. One of these recent examples is inspired by a 1999 New Yorker article written by Jonathan Harr. In it, he describes a civil trial in Jackson, Mississippi with attorney Willie Gary on behalf of Jeremiah O’Keefe against the Loewen Funeral Company over a contractual dispute. It’s a classic tale of David vs. Goliath; a small business owner vs. an industry giant; power to the people over corporate greed. Led by an exceptional Jamie Foxx, The Burial is sensational, balancing its audaciously vibrant spirit with its poignantly rich story.

Tommy Lee Jones stars as Jeremiah “Jerry” O’Keefe, a family man with a mom-and-pop funeral home. This business has been run by the O’Keefe family for generations, and Jerry intends to keep it that way. But when faced with financial troubles, he turns to Ray Loewen (Bill Camp) in hopes that selling part of the O’Keefe business will end his debts for good. When Ray’s greedy plan to hold out on Jerry begins, Jerry turns to Willie E. Gary (Jamie Foxx), a flamboyant personal injury lawyer with no history of understanding contract law. But he’s never lost a case. This unlikely pairing may be a losing battle from the outside looking in, but Jerry and Willie find common ground through their faith, integrity, and push for justice.

Mamoudou Athie and Tommy Lee Jones in The Burial

Holistically, Maggie Betts’ The Burial serves up a nice plate of entertainment with laughter, family, and heart to enjoy on the side. However, this movie goes above and beyond Gary’s showy tactics to win a case. It’s about the discovery of truth. How many large companies and big-name corporations, then and now, take advantage of people out of greed? Along the way, Betts and co-writer Doug Wright take us back in time to remind us of the exploitation of marginalized that went on during the 90s, and the efforts of two men who joined forces to end it. Despite their differences in approaching the problem, these are put aside for the sake of justice.

There are so many great things to look forward to in this fast-paced courtroom dramedy, and Betts finds the best way to balance the varying tones throughout her second feature. From the hilarious courtroom scenes and personality clashes to the heartwarming moments centered around family, this is the kind of film where anyone can find enjoyment. The music also stands out, but for distinct reasons. Composer Michael Abels ensures that every emotion we’re supposed to feel is supported and amplified through his music. The inclusion of certain songs is cleverly used throughout with intent. You won’t be able to stop yourself from grooving to the sounds or nodding and laughing when appropriate. The creative team behind The Burial truly worked together to make this film fully engaging.

Jurnee Smollett and Jamie Foxx in The Burial

Through laughter, tugged heart strings, and even the pride that may seep through while watching a small team take down a corporate giant, The Burial has so much going for it. With its star-studded cast, it’s also hard to imagine it turning out any other way. Jamie Foxx leads the pack with a show-stopping performance. It will be no shock to fans of the long-time actor, but he is so impressive here, showcasing his range. His scenes with every actor elevate and amplify their performances, and it’s worth noting his beautiful chemistry with Tommy Lee Jones. Jurnee Smollett, Mamoudou Athie, Alan Ruck, Pamela Reed, Bill Camp, and Amanda Warren — all within their supporting roles — have scene-stealing moments.

A satisfying David vs. Goliath tale of justice, The Burial is the type of film you’d watch for the history lesson, stay for the entertainment, and return to see a wonderful cast let loose in all the best ways imaginable. Betts and the rest of the filmmaking team showcase the importance of putting aside your differences to do what’s right in a vibrant way that will keep you glued to the screen. Ray Loewen, in the film, once referred to his plan of controlling the majority of the funeral home and insurance businesses as “the golden age of death.” Something tells me he didn’t see the death of his own plan thanks to the inspiring unity between Jerry O’Keefe and Willie E. Gary. The team truly could have made this a boring film, but with this cast and this director, it’s golden.

The Burial premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival. It will have a limited release in theaters starting October 6 then release on Prime Video on October 13. The film is 126 minutes and rated R for language.