The Inspection

4 out of 5 stars

The military is a unique atmosphere that allows for social experiments to be explored. Sexual orientation has been tested in this culture that is built on trust in close quarters throughout the centuries. Inspired by the true-to-life experiences of writer/director Elegance Bratton as he shares his life at home and in the Marines.

Life for Ellis French (Jeremy Pope) had been on the streets for over nine years after his mother discovered he was homosexual. As he tries to find his feet and searches for ways of escaping the cruel world of homelessness, the 25-year-old decides to join the Marine Corp. Despite the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" directive being issued by the US Defence Department in 1993, many within this branch of the armed forces intended to 'weed out the gays' during boot camp. Gunnery Sergeant Leland Laws (Bokeem Woodbine) and all but one of his fellow trainers made Ellis’ life difficult as he navigated this testosterone-driven world.

Initially impressed by French's tenacity, Laws turns sour after discovering his sexual orientation in the worst way possible - in the showers. During basic training, the young Marine is pushed well beyond the limits of the other recruits. Throughout the beatings, torment, and near-death situations, Ellis does all he can to prevail through boot camp and the more considerable challenges after completion.

Films addressing abuse within the military ranks - such as A Few Good Men, G. I. Jane and Full Metal Jacket - are a mainstay in the Hollywood lexicon. The Inspection plays out in a similarly brutal manner as Laws gives a 'Code Red'-like directive as recruit Laurence Harvey (McCaul Lombardi) is left to 'handle' French. Elements like this make this film confronting and hard to watch with gritty yet exceptional performances.

Jeremy Pope was nominated for Best Actor at the 2023 Golden Globes and it is well-deserved, along with his central portrayal. Gabrielle Union is outstanding as Ellis' homophobic and uncompromising mother, Inez. These exceptional performances help to overcome the lower production qualities and make this a must-see for those who enjoy these storylines.

REEL DIALOGUE: What are some of the bigger questions to consider from this film?

1. What is the value of family? (Genesis 2:24, Exodus 20:12, Psalm 22:6, John 15:12-17)
2. What does the Bible have to say about homosexuality? (Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, 1 Timothy 1:10)
3. What does the Bible have to say about bullying? (Matthew 5:43-48, Romans 12:9-10, 1 John 3:5)