Review: "Fruitvale Station" is an Amazing Look at a Simple Life

Michael B. Jordan

As I have stated before, July was an abysmal month for quality movies. While films Blue Jasmine sneaked into the mix with amazing success, this was a limited release that seemed more predicated on an established director. Still, when Sundance's Grand Jury Prize winner Fruitvale Station finally came out, it almost seemed inevitable that it would get Oscar buzz. Partially because of current events, but also simply because it was a compelling character study. Is this story successful in bringing a flawed individual's life to the big screen, or is it overly sentimental for pointless reasons?

Is "Fruitvale Station" This Year's First Serious Best Picture Nominee?

Left to right: Ariana Neal and Michael B. Jordan

After months of speculation and asking the question "Is this going to get nominated?," we have finally come across the first that very well may do just that. Director Ryan Coogler's Fruitvale Station has become one of the most talked about films of the year largely thanks to a successful run at Sundance back in January in which it won the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award in the Drama category. Since, it has only gotten more and more acclaim as it finally reaches a limited release this week. While it seems likely to get a nomination, does this film have what it takes to the Best Picture statue?