Themes
Clean/Unclean, Institutional Evil
A good movie to talk about prejudices and sexual control. (Rev. Rebecca Thomas, First Lutheran Church of Sauk Centre)
Justice, Vengeance
Jake Tyler Brigance: And until we can see each other as equals, justice is never going to be even-handed. It will remain nothing more than a reflection of our own prejudices.
Truth
Jake Tyler Brigance: What is it in us that seeks the truth? Is it our minds or is it our hearts?
A Time to Kill Movie Analysis Tradition is a priceless component to any culture, as it has been shaped and developed by time itself. Tradition passes from generation to generation, exercising its influence through the actions and thoughts of a people. The tradition that has materialized from the history of the American South is no different. It remains a pillar of hope, faith, and pride for those southerners who embrace it.
Tradition of the South dictates a way life with roots in the very foundation of the United States. While this may act as a testament to the strength and courage of the people of the south, the fact remains that the principles laid down by this tradition defy civil rights and respect for humanity. In this sense, the old ways of the South do not compliment the rapid changes that occur in society each day. At heart, this realization is the overall theme of "A Time To Kill". The convictions of the South are detrimental to the civility of the human race and yet, remain unchanged after 150 years because they rise from the tradition of the Southern culture.
The realization listed above haunts each of the principal characters in "A Time To Kill" as the story of racial injustice unfolds. Centered around the brutal rape and assault of a young black girl, Tanya Hailey, "A Time To Kill" immerses itself into the intense emotions that are involved in hatred. The rape, committed by two white men, epitomizes this blind hatred that stems from