TIFF 2024: The Order Movie Trailer
This year’s Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is set to showcase a gripping historical thriller, The Order, directed by Justin Kurzel. Known for his intense and atmospheric films like Nitram and The Snowtown Murders, Kurzel’s latest work plunges into a harrowing chapter of American history. With powerhouse performances from Jude Law, Tye Sheridan, and Nicholas Hoult, this film promises a deep dive into the dark underbelly of domestic terrorism.
The Premise
The Order is set in 1983, a year marked by a series of bank robberies and car heists across the Pacific Northwest. As the FBI begins to suspect a connection to a white supremacist group, Agent Terry Husk (Jude Law) takes on the daunting task of bringing down this dangerous faction. Partnered with a young, enthusiastic deputy (Tye Sheridan), Husk’s investigation uncovers Robert Jay Mathews (Nicholas Hoult), a charismatic leader rallying followers for an armed revolution.
The film, based on Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt’s bestselling book The Silent Brotherhood, portrays one of the largest manhunts in FBI history. It explores the intense ideological clash between the FBI and the radical domestic terrorists determined to impose their racist beliefs on society.
What Makes It Stand Out
- Riveting Performances: Jude Law delivers a compelling portrayal of Agent Husk, a veteran agent whose personal demons—fuelled by alcohol and family estrangement—drive his relentless pursuit of justice. Law’s performance is described as unnervingly effective, showcasing a character deeply haunted by the darkness he seeks to eliminate.
- Atmospheric Direction: Justin Kurzel, known for his meticulous and intense filmmaking style, creates a film steeped in atmosphere. The Order features stunning pastoral landscapes contrasted with the grim reality of its subject matter. The score and cinematography work together to build a sense of dread and tension that keeps viewers on edge.
- Historical Resonance: While the film’s historical setting might be nearly four decades old, its themes resonate strongly today. The story reflects on the persistence of extremist ideologies and the lengths to which individuals and institutions must go to combat them. This makes The Order not just a historical recount but a relevant commentary on contemporary issues.
- Complex Characters: The film doesn’t just portray its characters as heroes and villains but delves into their motivations and struggles. Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal of Mathews, though controversial among some critics, presents a charismatic yet menacing figure whose extremism contrasts sharply with Husk’s moral struggle.
- Suspense and Authenticity: The film excels in its depiction of a real-life manhunt, with Kurzel’s direction capturing the gritty reality of FBI investigations before the era of advanced technology. The procedural elements and authentic portrayal of law enforcement tactics add to the film’s gripping nature.
Screening Information
Catch The Order at TIFF 2024 on the following dates:
- Sunday, September 8
TIFF Lightbox
Premium Screening (Closed Captions and Audio Description) – 3:00 PM - Monday, September 9
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Press & Industry Screening (Closed Captions and Audio Description) – 9:30 AM
General Screening (Closed Captions and Audio Description) – 2:30 PM - Friday, September 13
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
General Screening (Closed Captions and Audio Description) – 7:30 PM
Final Thoughts
The Order stands out as a riveting thriller that combines historical drama with a contemporary relevance. Justin Kurzel’s masterful direction, combined with strong performances from Jude Law and his co-stars, makes this film a must-watch at TIFF 2024. It offers a tense, thought-provoking look at a dark chapter in American history, with a focus on the ideological battles that continue to shape our world today.
