Othello (2001) Sax

Unexpected tears are still wet on my face at the end of this film.

Christopher Eccleston, as Ben Jago, tells us directly at the beginning of the film that it isn't about race - it's about love. It's hard to see the love, though, because race is such a huge part of this film's setting. There are tense race relations in London, and Scotland Yard is politically forced to make changes to create more diversity in their ranks. This comes just as yet another black man is beaten to death by police. The commissioner loses his job for making a racist statement, and John Othello is offered the huge leap in rank to make up for it (though they assure him it has nothing to do with his race). Jago, who had been deputy commissioner and expected the promotion, is extremely angry and plots to bring John down.

I wasn't into the first 30 minutes of this film - and since it's only 96 minutes, that's a large portion. Mostly, that was because of the setup of racial tension, the fallout over the beating victim's death, and the over-setup of Othello and Dessi's relationship (they met 3 months ago and married quickly - passionately). Then Jago blew his top off when Othello was promoted over him. It was terrifying. Mostly because the cinematography in this made-for-tv movie was incredibly on. Creepy focus pulls, quick cuts, strange angles on Jago. Partly, too, Eccleston was really really creepy as Jago. It was odd, sometimes, that he would say exactly what was on his mind, his anger would come out, and Othello would laugh it off. He was emotionally detached from his relationship with Lulu - even, oddle, perching like a gargoyle on her tub while she bathes, pressing her for information.

And there was a LOT of sex. Just in case you're sensitive. And the N-bomb. A Lot.

I really did wonder for the longest time what the race riot plot had to do with the main Othello plot (jealousy), but it was actually a really effective way to underscore Othello's insecurity both on the job and at home. The stress of bringing promised closure to his community, as well as somewhat knowing that he was not the best man for his job - just the most PC choice, really affects his security with his wife. Jago is really good at dropping little hints and even big lies at the right time to drive him crazy.

I wept at the final moments. Othello's intense grief over the body of his innocent wife, the hurt and fear in Lulu's eyes, and the cold detachment in Jago's face as he ascends to his promised post. Whew. What an intense film.

I can't embed a video for you to preview, but CLICK HERE for Part 1 on youtube.