Shoot the Messenger (2006)

Shoot The Messenger follows one man's painful journey towards self-discovery. On the way he finds both his own attitudes and the expectations of his community challenged.

Director:

Ngozi Onwurah

Writer:

Sharon Foster

Stars:

Medina Aijikawo, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Jotham Annan

3 wins & 1 nomination.

Cast

Credited cast:
Medina Aijikawo	...	Sarah
Nikki Amuka-Bird	...	Heather
Jotham Annan	...	Nevil
Feyi Babalola	...	Woman #2
Channei Bain	...	Shenqua
Ariyon Bakare	...	Elroy
Richard Blackwood	...	Sir Galahad - Radio DJ
Heather Bleasdale	...	Tracey Willis
Graham Bohea	...	Fred
Brian Bovell	...	Councillor Watts
Jay Byrd	...	Mabel
Sabina Cameron	...	Woman #1
Rupert Degas	...	Solicitor
Sharon Duncan-Brewster	...	Sherlene
George Eggay	...	Neil

Storyline

Shoot The Messenger follows one man's painful journey towards self-discovery. On the way he finds both his own attitudes and the expectations of his community challenged.

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Plot Keywords:

f rated | 

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Genres:

Drama

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Certificate:

Not Rated

User Reviews

Get past the hate factor

I've seen comments on this movie, which focus on the negative messages sent out by the main character. But Joseph Pascale brilliantly portrayed by David Oyelomo (watch out for this immensely talented actor) is an anti-hero. We as viewers are not supposed to agree with him or his actions. We are only asked to venture on a journey with him.

Yes. Most of what he said is over-the-top and blatantly wrong, but it does forward various touchy issues paint straight at you. You sometimes don't know whether Joseph is wrong or right and this doubt may be a very treacherous thing. The questions asked are treason, but the tingling feeling lingers that not all he said was unfounded.

The movie is beautifully acted and shot with the comedy side giving some relief. The script-writing (irrespective if you find the movie repulsive) is top-notch. Nigerian-born Ngozi Onwurah has done a spectacular job.

I guess there were a few moments, where they pushed the character a bit too far. On the other hand you can also see it as Joseph entering a phase were he was self-indulging on his own hatred and it spiraled out of control. Look the party scene.

You may not like it. But its hard not to admire it. And even harder to forget it.

Details

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Release Date:

26 April 2006 (USA)

Company Credits

Production Co:

BBC Films

Technical Specs

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.78 : 1