Loving (2016) Review
Authentic. Touching. Inspiring. These words perfectly describe “Loving,” an Oscar-nominated period film that tells the true love story of Richard and Mildred Loving. Richard and Mildred were an interracial couple living in Virginia during the racially tense 1950s and 1960s. The obstacles they faced seemed insurmountable.
The Story
The film begins with Mildred revealing her pregnancy to Richard. Richard, filled with joy, asks her to marry him. Due to Virginia’s anti-miscegenation laws, they can’t marry there. So, they head to Washington D.C. to tie the knot. Everything should have been fine, but someone from their town tips off the police. In the middle of the night, they are arrested and taken to the precinct. This event sets off a chain of events that would change American history.
After their arrest, with Mildred facing harsher treatment, the Lovings are sentenced to one year in prison. The sentence is suspended if they agree not to return to Virginia together for 25 years. However, Virginia is their home, where their families live, and where Mildred wants to raise her children. The banishment hits them hard.
Over the years, including a failed attempt to sneak back into Virginia, Mildred reaches out to the law for help. The Civil Rights movement is gaining momentum, and there’s a sense of hope. She needs her children to have the freedom to play and run.
Loving V. Virginia
Michael Shannon portrays Grey Villet, the photographer who captures the iconic Life Magazine pictures. In a true twist of history, Mildred writes a letter about their case to Robert F. Kennedy. Kennedy then refers the case to the American Civil Liberties Union. Eventually, it reaches the Supreme Court. On June 12, 1967, the court unanimously rules against Virginia, stating that anti-miscegenation laws violate the Fourteenth Amendment. Richard and Mildred were finally free. Yet, the movie delves deeper than just the Supreme Court case.
What moved me the most about “Loving” is director Jeff Nichols’ choice to focus on the love story rather than the court case. While the legal battle is significant, it’s not the core of the movie. “Loving” isn’t a political film or a courtroom drama but a heartfelt story about two individuals who simply wanted to live peacefully and raise their family.
The Actors
Every line in the movie carries weight and emotion. Jeff Nichols writes a poetic, thoughtful script, using words only when necessary. Richard Loving, portrayed by Joel Edgerton, is a quiet man who speaks little but conveys so much through his actions and expressions. Edgerton’s performance is among the best I’ve ever seen. Ruth Negga, who plays Mildred, received a well-deserved Oscar nomination, although it’s surprising Edgerton didn’t receive one too. His performance is truly goosebump-inducing.
The Romance
And then there’s the love story. Richard and Mildred’s last name, “Loving,” seems almost too perfect, given their deep affection for each other. Their story is not only true but also a timeless romance. The subtlety and simplicity of their love make it beautiful and achingly romantic. When his lawyer asks him what to say to the Supreme Court judge, Richard replies, “Tell the judge I love my wife.” You can feel the depth of his love in that simple statement.
Overall, I applaud Jeff Nichols for creating a film that captures both historical truth and the beauty of a love story. “Loving” may move at a slower pace for some, but if you appreciate romances that depict a profound connection, this film is a must-watch.
Content Note: “Loving” is rated PG-13 for thematic elements. While the film deals with themes of racism, there are no vulgar or overly violent scenes. There are a few suspenseful moments.
Overall Rating: “The stuff that dreams are made of.”
Romance Rating: “You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope. I have loved none but you.”
