Hurricane, The MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -3

This moving drama tells the true story of boxer Ruben Hurricane Carter (Denzel Washington). The Hurricane quickly rises to boxing prominence and becomes the Welterweight Champion, only to be the victim of a racist cop in his hometown as he is accused of a brutal murder. Convicted of the crimes, Carter and another innocent man both receive life sentences. Carter, well read and convinced of his own innocence, goes to prison and does everything in his power to live his own way. He writes his autobiography while in prison and ten years later, young teen Lesra Martin (Vicellous Reon Shannon) reads the book. When Carters story grips the young teen, he and some friends decide to fight for Carters innocence. To succeed, they have to make sacrifice after sacrifice, not the least of which is spending the next five years working only on the case. Washingtons portrayal of Carter is tremendous, easily making this one of his finest performances to date. The film is heart wrenching and inspiring, and should be a hit with audiences everywhere.

Carter is an example for all of us in many ways. Growing up in a situation that provides him with every excuse to fail, he rises above that through books. Through his reading, he gains a perspective in life that enables him to overcome the social barriers that surround him. At first, Carter is motivated by hate and anger, but as he grows older in prison, learns that love is the stronger motive. Also, the discipline that Carter shows all through his life makes others want more in their own lives. The film does include a flash of male rear nudity as some inmates are searched in prison. And being a violent sport, a lot of punches are thrown in some boxing scenes. However, foul language is primarily where this film takes a dive with 26 f-words, 26 s-words, and 9 regular profanities. Sadly, the language rains out a great story of love and justice.

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: Universal Pictures, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608