"Some things are worth dying for. Some things are worth killing for"

Rating: 7/10 (31 May 2010)

Gene Hackman and Willem Dafoe stir up a Southern hornets nest in "Mississippi Burning". With a powerhouse supporting cast including, Francis McDormand, Brad Dourif, and a somewhat miscast R.Lee Ermy, the film is extremely well acted. The violence following Hackman and Dafoe's investigation is both convincing and repulsive. Hackman's occasional sense of humor is a welcome diversion from the oppressive atmosphere of hate. Although Gene Hackman and Willem Dafoe play well off each other, neither could be considered a warm character. Special mention must be made of the soundtrack, which is both appropriate and excellent. - MERK