The Inspection

Ellis French is a young, gay Black man, rejected by his mother and with few options for his future, decides to join the Marines, doing whatever it takes to succeed in a system that would cast him aside. But even as he battles deep-seated prejudice and the grueling routines of basic training, he finds unexpected camaraderie, strength, and support in this new community, giving him a hard-earned sense of belonging that will shape his identity and forever change his life.

  • Released: 2022-11-18
  • Runtime: 95 minutes
  • Genre: Drama
  • Stars: Jeremy Pope, Gabrielle Union, Bokeem Woodbine, Raúl Castillo, McCaul Lombardi, Nicholas Logan, Aaron Dominguez, Eman Esfandi, Aubrey Joseph, Andrew Kai, Tyler Merritt, Steve Mokate, Brad Napp, Daniel Williamson, Wynn Reichert
  • Director: Elegance Bratton
 Comments
  • calmdownmars - 14 January 2024
    A Story that NEEDED to be shared!
    Words can't explain to its entirety how ground breaking this movie was. The Inspection does nothing but leave you heart broken by the end of it, but also very hopeful for the main character.

    The military has always been a massive contribution of example to what we as humans consider qualifications for masculinity and strength. But this movie tests the waters and challenges those ideas of what is considered actual masculinity by showing the true story of a homeless gay man's redemption arc by serving his country to win back his mother's heart. Despite, how his fellow man treats him throughout his service, he still remains humble, gentle, and considerate. I believe THAT is true masculinity at its finest.

    The movie also shows many delicately depicted scenes of the main character's relationship with his mother. It hurts so much inside watching him beg for his mother's approval and love. The feelings of denial and disappointments you face in having a parent who doesn't accept you. If you didn't actually know the Movie is based on the writer and director's actual story and relationship with his mother, and while they did make light progress after his service, she ended up passing right before the movie was released. She never got to see the movie that was basically reflecting his heart on his sleeve. It's unfortunate how this part of the story in his life had to end. But the film leaves you hopeful for his self acceptance and healing journey.
  • steveinadelaide - 7 May 2023
    Powerful and emotional
    "The Inspection" (2022), is a drama starring Jeremy Pope as Ellis French, a young gay black man who joins the Marines to escape his abusive mother (Gabrielle Union) and find his place in the world.

    This movie was a powerful and emotional experience. Pope gives an incredible performance as Ellis, who struggles to survive the harsh and homophobic environment of boot camp, while also dealing with his unresolved trauma and longing for his mother's love. He is supported by a great cast, especially Raúl Castillo as Rosales, his sympathetic drill instructor, and Bokeem Woodbine as Laws, his ruthless and bigoted superior.

    The film is based on the true story of writer-director Elegance Bratton, who was homeless for a decade after being kicked out by his mother for being gay. He joined the Marines and eventually became a filmmaker, telling his story with honesty and courage. The film does not shy away from showing the brutality and discrimination that Ellis faces but also shows his resilience and strength in overcoming them.

    The film also explores the themes of identity, family, and belonging, as Ellis tries to reconcile his sexuality, race, and patriotism in a society that rejects him. He finds some solace in his friendship with Castro (Aaron Dominguez), another gay recruit, and in his faith in God. He also confronts his mother in a heartbreaking scene that reveals their complex and painful relationship.

    The film has received critical acclaim and several awards nominations, including a Golden Globe nod for Pope. He deserves it, as he carries the film with his charisma and vulnerability. He makes us care for Ellis and barracking for him to succeed.

    "The Inspection" is a moving and inspiring story that will make you think and feel. If you haven't seen it yet, I highly recommend it.
  • jimfinger-47793 - 2 January 2023
    Worthwhile, particularly as a study in overcoming parental disavowal.
    The understated nature of this film is, overall, an asset, though at the same time, it undermines the clarity and impact of the overall story. Still, this is a clear eyed look at the trauma that a parent's disapproval can wreak, and the courage and determination of the protagonist to find an accepting "family" is both admirable and inspirational. Very fine, believable performances from all the cast, and the script never strikes any false or sentimentally objectionable notes. The crisp, ninety or so minute length is also a wise decision, the story doesn't need any more than that to be told convincingly. Good (if not brilliant) job!