“Rage-inducing” and “awe-inspiring” legal drama based on a true story is available to stream on BBC

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Looking for a powerful and emotional film? Just Mercy is a must-watch. This legal drama, based on real events, is currently streaming on BBC iPlayer. Be prepared to feel a lot – you might find yourself both cheering and shedding tears!

When the film was released in 2020, the Chicago Reader described it as both infuriating and inspiring, noting that the characters’ bravery offered a sense of hope amidst injustice. The Atlantic also praised the film, stating its strength came from the harsh reality of the true story it told, but that the director managed to present this story in a way that remained accessible and focused.

This movie isn’t a standard legal thriller. It’s based on the real-life story of Bryan Stevenson, a lawyer, and his client Walter McMillian, a Black man wrongly convicted and sentenced to death in Alabama for a murder he didn’t commit.

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Michael B. Jordan, known for his role in Creed, portrays Bryan Stevenson, a recent Harvard Law School graduate who founded the Equal Justice Initiative in 1989. Stevenson dedicated himself to securing the release of Walter McMillian, played by Jamie Foxx. Brie Larson and Tim Blake Nelson also star in the film.

The movie tells the real story of how McMillian’s wrongful conviction was overturned. The case relied on unreliable witness statements, and despite having an alibi and a lack of physical evidence, McMillian spent six years on death row before finally being freed.

Just Mercy effectively combines heartbreaking stories of injustice with truly uplifting moments. The film will make you angry at the flaws in the legal system, but it will also leave you inspired by the resilience of Bryan Stevenson and Walter McMillian.

Destin Daniel Cretton, the director of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and the soon-to-be-released Spider-Man: Brand New Day, received praise for how authentically he depicted racism within the American legal system. While the film follows some standard courtroom drama tropes, the powerful performances and the story’s basis in truth make it a must-see.

Likewise, the cast was given ample credit for quiet but powerful performances.

According to The Telegraph, Jordan delivers a powerful and energetic performance, while Jamie Foxx gives a subtly moving and remarkably well-controlled performance – his strongest in over ten years.

Just Mercy is now available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

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2026-02-02 20:50