New Movies: The Order (2024) by Justin Kurzel: A Gritty Unmasking of American Extremism

Core Summary: Hunting a Homegrown Threat

The Order is a chilling true-crime thriller that plunges into the dangerous world of 1980s white supremacist terrorism in the Pacific Northwest. It follows a determined FBI agent's relentless pursuit of a charismatic leader and his radical group, highlighting the disturbing origins of domestic extremism and its enduring relevance today.

Summary Short: A Brief, Intense Look

This harrowing cop thriller, based on real events, depicts veteran FBI agent Terry Husk's investigation into a violent white supremacist group known as "The Order," which plans to overthrow the U.S. government through a series of escalating crimes.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26625693/

Link Review: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-order-jude-law-film-review

About movie: https://theordermov.com/

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/the-order-2024 (US), https://www.justwatch.com/au/movie/the-order (Australia), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/the-order-2024 (Canada), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/the-order-2024 (UK), https://www.justwatch.com/fr/film/the-order-2024 (France), https://www.justwatch.com/it/film/the-order-2024 (Italy), https://www.justwatch.com/es/pelicula/the-order-2024 (Spain), https://www.justwatch.com/de/Film/the-order (Germany)

Detailed Summary: The True Story Unfolds

The Order meticulously reconstructs the true story of a domestic terrorist group operating in the 1980s, drawing heavily from Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt's non-fiction book The Silent Brotherhood.

• A New Assignment, A Burgeoning Threat: Veteran FBI agent Terry Husk (Jude Law), seeking a quieter life and aiming to reconnect with his estranged family, reopens a small field office in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. However, this seemingly peaceful setting quickly exposes a sinister undercurrent of white supremacist activity.

• Connecting the Crimes: Husk, with the help of local Deputy Jamie Bowen (Tye Sheridan), begins to connect seemingly disparate events—a synagogue bombing, a string of robberies, and a missing Aryan Nations member—to a larger, more organized threat that runs deeper than initially appears.

• Rise of the Radical Faction: While established figures like Richard Butler of the Aryan Nations advocate for a slower, legal path to white supremacy, a more radical splinter group, "The Order," emerges. Led by the charismatic but dangerous Robert Jay Mathews (Nicholas Hoult), they embrace The Turner Diaries as their blueprint for a violent revolution.

• Funding the Revolution through Crime: The Order escalates its activities, carrying out bold bank robberies and armored car heists to fund their ultimate goal: igniting a race war and overthrowing the federal government. Their criminal enterprise grows increasingly sophisticated and violent.

• A Shocking Assassination: Their campaign of terror culminates in the high-profile assassination of Jewish talk radio host Alan Berg (Marc Maron) in Denver. This chilling act not only brings national attention to their extremism but also signals a dangerous escalation of their tactics.

• The Pursuit Intensifies: FBI agent Joanne Carney (Jurnee Smollett) joins Husk, providing crucial analytical and investigative support. A new recruit to The Order, Tony Torres, turns informant, providing the FBI with vital intelligence that brings them closer to Mathews and his inner circle.

• Climax and Fatal Confrontation: The film builds to a dramatic and violent climax as Husk's attempts to apprehend Mathews lead to a devastating shootout, tragically resulting in the death of Deputy Bowen. Mathews subsequently retreats to a fortified safe house, preparing for a final stand.

• The Final Siege: Cornered by the FBI on Whidley Island, Washington, Mathews makes a desperate final stand. Husk makes a last, perilous attempt to reason with Mathews, but the confrontation ends tragically with Mathews' death as the safe house burns and ammunition detonates.

The film effectively portrays the psychological toll on law enforcement and the chilling dedication of the extremists, building palpable tension as Husk closes in on Mathews and his followers, revealing the disturbing origins and lasting impact of domestic extremism.

Director's Vision: Kurzel's Gritty Lens on Extremism

• Timely Resonance: Director Justin Kurzel's interest in the project was significantly sparked by the January 6th U.S. Capitol attack in 2021. He observed parallels between those events and the "Day of the Rope" described in The Turner Diaries, the Order's foundational text, underscoring the film's contemporary relevance.

• Gritty Realism: Kurzel crafted the film with a raw, visceral quality, reminiscent of 1970s cop thrillers. He focused on believable, non-CGI action sequences and avoided overly "Hollywood" showiness to achieve maximum authenticity.

• Nuanced Character Portrayal: The director aimed to present the criminals not as cartoonish villains but as fully developed, albeit deeply flawed and dangerous, individuals. Simultaneously, he explored the complexities and struggles of the law enforcement officers, creating a more disturbing and realistic picture of the conflict.

• Atmospheric Tension: Kurzel skillfully utilized a slowly burning sense of foreboding, enhanced by Jed Kurzel's evocative score and the vast, often stark landscapes of Calgary where it was shot. This choice created a constantly mounting tension that keeps the audience on edge and emphasizes the characters' struggle against the enormity of the historical context.

Themes: Unpacking the Echoes of a Troubling Past

• Domestic Terrorism and White Supremacy: The film unflinchingly examines the rise and violent methods of a real-life white supremacist terrorist organization, highlighting their dangerous ideology and the horrific actions committed within an American context.

• Radicalization and Ideological Extremism: It explores the insidious process of how individuals become drawn into extremist groups and the profound power of radical texts like The Turner Diaries to fuel dangerous agendas, showcasing the psychological underpinnings of such movements.

• Law Enforcement's Struggle: The narrative delves into the immense challenges faced by FBI agents in tracking and dismantling domestic terror cells, showcasing their dedication, the personal sacrifices involved, and the inherent dangers of such high-stakes investigations.

• Historical Relevance: Despite being set in the 1980s, the film's themes of anti-government sentiment, racial hatred, and the desire to incite violence resonate powerfully with contemporary political and social climates, underlining the enduring and cyclical nature of these societal issues.

• The Banality of Evil: The film subtly explores how seemingly ordinary individuals can harbor extreme beliefs and commit horrific acts, often hiding behind a facade of normalcy. This makes the depicted threat feel more insidious and pervasive, emphasizing its roots in everyday society.

Key Success Factors: Strengths of the Film's Execution

• Outstanding Performances: Jude Law delivers a career-best performance as the grizzled and tormented FBI agent Terry Husk, bringing depth to the character, while Nicholas Hoult masterfully portrays the chillingly charismatic Robert Jay Mathews, making him both compelling and terrifying. Tye Sheridan and Jurnee Smollett also provide strong, well-developed supporting roles that enhance the film's dramatic weight.

• Visceral Action and Suspense: The film features well-executed, non-CGI car chases and shootouts that contribute to a constant sense of tension and realism, maintaining a tight procedural thriller pace without relying on excessive spectacle. This commitment to gritty authenticity makes the action sequences particularly impactful.

• Timely and Disturbing Subject Matter: By tackling the origins of modern American white supremacist movements and their ideological underpinnings, the movie offers an urgently relevant and bleak look at a persistent and deeply troubling issue in American identity. Its unflinching examination of radicalization resonates powerfully with contemporary societal concerns.

• Strong Direction: Justin Kurzel's direction is praised for its intensity, verisimilitude in depicting violence, and ability to craft a harrowing, straightforward cop thriller. He effectively immerses the audience in the grim reality of the events, ensuring that the film feels both authentic and gripping from start to finish.

Summary Short: A Concise Takeaway

The Order is a compelling and timely true-crime thriller driven by powerful performances and a stark look at domestic extremism.

Awards & Nominations: The Industry Has Spoken: A Festival Darling with Critical Acclaim: Recognition of a Powerful Narrative

The Order has received significant film festival recognition, notably being an Official Selection at ten prestigious events including the Venice Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival, and AFI Fest in 2024. It was specifically nominated for the Golden Lion - Best Picture at the Venice Film Festival and also received a nomination for a Satellite Award for Motion Picture, Drama. Its selection and nominations at these high-profile festivals underscore its strong critical attention and artistic merit, highlighting its impact within the film community and its status as a recognized work of cinematic excellence.

Critics Reception: Unanimous Acclaim for a Gripping Narrative: A Timely Thriller with Resounding Praise: Universally Applauded for Urgency and Performances

• Metacritic: The film holds a Metascore of 75 out of 100, indicating "generally favorable reviews" based on 37 critic reviews (30 positive, 7 mixed, 0 negative). Critics like Bilge Ebiri (New York Magazine/Vulture) called it an "unforgettable movie" with existential consequences, while Richard Roeper (Chicago Sun-Times) noted it as an "enormously effective thriller" and a timely reminder of persistent darkness and hate.

• Rotten Tomatoes: While a specific number of reviews isn't always highlighted on the main page, various sources mention a 92% "Fresh" score, indicating overwhelmingly positive critical reception. Collider specifically highlights this high score, noting that despite an underwhelming box office, the film was a critical success. User discussions on Reddit from this platform generally praised its strong cinematography and acting, though some found the writing occasionally thin.

• Eye for Film: Marko Stojiljkovic's review described The Order as a "very effective, functional movie fun" that evokes proper movies of old. He praised the airtight script by Zach Baylin, the interesting casting (especially Nicholas Hoult as a charismatic psychopath and Jude Law's spotlight performance), and Kurzel's methodical directing.

• Deep Focus Review: This review commended Justin Kurzel's grim and disturbing treatment of the subject, noting its strong resemblance to 1970s cop thrillers and its insightful exploration of how extremism builds in the mind, calling it an honest portrayal of a "rotten facet of American identity."

• Cinelinx: Jordan Maison's review called it a "thrilling and all too timely" film, comparing its tension to Michael Mann's Heat. He highlighted the powerhouse performances by Jude Law and Nicholas Hoult, emphasizing their captivating cat-and-mouse dynamic and the film's accurate depiction of main historical events.

• Roger https://www.google.com/search?q=Ebert.com: Robert Daniels' review stated that the film "isn't out to titillate or digress into exploitation," instead heeding a strict tone and pacing that slowly unravels the viewer. It praised the raw intensity of the action scenes and the film's grounded nature, noting its ability to give a sense of the characters' inner demons.

Overall Summary of Critics Reception: The critical response to The Order has been overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers consistently praising its intense and timely portrayal of domestic white supremacist terrorism. Critics commend the exceptional performances from its lead actors, Jude Law and Nicholas Hoult, as well as Justin Kurzel's taut and gritty direction which delivers visceral action sequences without relying on excessive spectacle. Many critics highlighted the film's disturbing contemporary relevance, asserting that it serves as a powerful and thought-provoking examination of a dark chapter in American history that continues to echo in the present. The film is widely regarded as a significant and essential contribution to the true-crime thriller genre.

Reviews: The Public Has Weighed In: Audience and Aggregators Affirm Critical Success: Widespread Approval for Gritty Realism

While professional critics' insights are compiled in the "Critics Reception" section, broader reviews from aggregate platforms and user discussions also shed light on the film's impact.

• Metacritic User Score: Alongside the critic score, Metacritic records a User Score of 7.5 out of 10 based on 79 user ratings, which also indicates "generally favorable reviews." User comments frequently echo critic sentiments, praising the powerful acting, particularly Jude Law's nuanced portrayal and Nicholas Hoult's chilling performance. Many users appreciated the film's steady pacing and its realistic depiction of a troubling historical period, often drawing parallels to the first season of True Detective for its dark, atmospheric tone and character depth.

• Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score / Discussions: While a distinct "Audience Score" number wasn't immediately prominent for this specific film as a standalone metric (as with some other movies), discussions on platforms linked to Rotten Tomatoes, such as Reddit, reveal a strong positive sentiment among viewers. Users frequently describe it as a "damn fine movie" that was "not even on my radar until recently and glad I went to see it." Comments often noted the film's strong cinematography and acting, appreciating its engaging story despite a few minor criticisms regarding pacing or character depth in certain instances. The film's relevance to modern political landscapes was also a frequent talking point among viewers.

Overall Summary of Reviews: General audience and aggregated reviews largely align with the positive critical reception, underscoring The Order's success in delivering a compelling and impactful true-crime thriller. Viewers consistently commend the strong performances, particularly those of Jude Law and Nicholas Hoult, and appreciate the film's gritty realism and timely exploration of domestic extremism. While some minor critiques emerged regarding pacing or character development for supporting roles, the overall consensus among the broader audience indicates that the film is a powerful, engaging, and highly relevant cinematic experience that resonates deeply with its themes.

Box Office: Financial Performance Overview

The Order had a modest box office performance, with a reported worldwide revenue of approximately $2.27 million. Its domestic gross reached around $2.01 million, beginning with an opening weekend of $877,855 across 603 theaters. International markets contributed an additional $259,453.

Production Summary: Behind the Scenes and Core Inspirations

The film's production was a co-production between Canada and the United States, based on Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt's non-fiction book The Silent Brotherhood. Director Justin Kurzel drew particular inspiration from recent real-world events like the January 6th Capitol attack, aiming for a raw, 70s-style thriller feel. Filming commenced in May 2023 in Alberta, Canada.

Production Companies: The Teams Behind the Film

The movie was a co-production between Canada and the United States, primarily involving AGC Studios, Chasing Epic Pictures, Riff Raff Entertainment, and Arcana Studio. Bryan Haas, Stuart Ford, Justin Kurzel, and Jude Law served as key producers, guiding the project from conception to completion.

Sales Companies: Global Distribution Outreach

While specific "sales companies" that handled the initial rights sales are not explicitly detailed, the film's global distribution by various entities, including Amazon MGM Studios, indicates its broad market reach and appeal to international audiences.

Distribution Companies: Bringing the Film to Audiences

The film was distributed by Vertical Entertainment for its limited theatrical release in the USA. Amazon MGM Studios also handled distribution rights, making it accessible on major platforms. Internationally, releases included Russia (under the title "Безмолвное братство"), Turkey (as "Düzen"), and the United Kingdom.

Release Date on Streaming: Digital Debut and Streaming Platform

The Order became available on VOD/Digital platforms on December 24, 2024, allowing for early home viewing. It then became available on SVOD (Subscription Video On Demand) for streaming on Hulu on April 18, 2025, expanding its reach to a wider streaming audience.

Theatrical Release: Big Screen Premiere Details

The film had its limited theatrical release in the USA on December 6, 2024. Prior to that, it garnered significant attention with its premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival on August 31, 2024, where it competed for top honors.

Why to Recommend this Movie: A Must-See for Its Relevance and Craft

• Historical Insight: It offers a stark and accurate portrayal of a significant, yet often underreported, chapter in American history concerning domestic terrorism, providing crucial context for understanding contemporary societal challenges.

• Exceptional Acting: The compelling and deeply immersive performances by Jude Law and Nicholas Hoult, among others, elevate the film. They bring complex and disturbing characters to life with remarkable authenticity, making their struggles and motivations palpable.

• Gripping Thriller: The film is a meticulously crafted procedural that maintains a high level of tension and suspense throughout. It utilizes realistic action and a tight narrative to create a captivating viewing experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

• Social Relevance: Its themes of radicalization, white supremacy, and anti-government extremism resonate powerfully with current events, making it a timely and thought-provoking cinematic experience that encourages reflection on enduring societal divisions.

Why to Watch Movie: Compelling Reasons to View "The Order"

• Understand the Roots of Extremism: Gain valuable insight into the historical context and motivations behind white supremacist movements in the U.S., shedding light on how such dangerous ideologies take root and spread within society.

• Witness Powerful Storytelling: Experience a narrative that is both harrowing and meticulously told, crafted with a raw realism that keeps you engaged and deeply affected from start to finish, offering a visceral cinematic experience.

• Appreciate Cinematic Craft: The film boasts strong, precise direction by Justin Kurzel, realistic and impactful action sequences, and an evocative score that collectively elevate the viewing experience, making it a standout in its genre for its artistic and technical merits.

• Spark Important Conversations: The movie's themes are highly relevant to contemporary societal discussions about political polarization, the rise of hate groups, and the enduring threats posed by domestic extremism, making it an excellent catalyst for meaningful dialogue and critical thinking.

Movie Trend: Reflecting Cinematic Currents and True Crime

The Order strongly follows the trend of gritty, realistic true-crime thrillers, drawing inspiration from 1970s American cinema's raw and unfiltered approach to law enforcement and societal ills. It also aligns with a contemporary cinematic focus on politically charged narratives that delve into the darker, often uncomfortable, aspects of national history and identity, resonating with a growing audience interest in real-world stories.

Big Social Trend: Mirroring Societal Concerns About Extremism

The film directly addresses the significant social trend of the resurgence and growing visibility of domestic extremism, white supremacist ideologies, and anti-government movements. It serves as a stark reminder of how historical movements can echo and gain renewed relevance in contemporary society, particularly in the context of increasing political polarization, online radicalization, and the erosion of trust in institutions.

Final Conclusions: Beyond the Screen, A Lasting Impact: Overall Impression and Impact: A Powerful, Must-See Examination of Extremism

The Order is a powerful, unsettling, and ultimately important film that bravely confronts a dark and persistent period in American history. It delivers a compelling and chilling narrative that resonates profoundly with today's social and political landscape, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers of extremism.

Recommendations for Film Makers: Crafting Stories That Resonate: Lessons from "The Order"

• Deep Research is Key: The film's authenticity and impact stem directly from its thorough research into the true events and the non-fiction source material, demonstrating the critical value of historical accuracy and detailed background in dramatic storytelling. This meticulous approach adds weight and credibility.

• Nuanced Character Portrayal: Filmmakers should strive to depict even antagonists with complexity and human motivations, rather than simplistic villainy. This allows for a more disturbing and impactful exploration of their ideologies and actions, making the threat more palpable.

• Action Serving Narrative: The film exemplifies how action sequences should be realistic and seamlessly integrated into the plot. This emphasizes that violence and suspense are most effective when they serve the story's themes and build tension, rather than existing solely for spectacle.

• Embrace Timely Themes: Filmmakers should not shy away from tackling sensitive or challenging contemporary social and political issues. These topics, when handled with depth and integrity, can lead to highly relevant, impactful, and thought-provoking cinema that resonates deeply with audiences.

Recommendations for Movie Industry: Charting a Course for Future Success: Insights from This Production

• Invest in True Stories with Contemporary Relevance: The critical success of The Order highlights the enduring appeal and societal importance of adapting well-researched true-crime narratives, especially those with significant historical and contemporary social relevance, as they can provide crucial context for current events.

• Support Unflinching Storytelling: Encouraging films that explore difficult and uncomfortable aspects of national identity and history, even when grim, can contribute significantly to public discourse and understanding, fostering a more informed and reflective society.

• Prioritize Quality over Spectacle: The film's critical acclaim for its gritty realism, strong performances, and taut direction, despite a relatively modest box office, suggests that compelling storytelling and nuanced character development remain paramount and can resonate deeply with audiences, regardless of budget.

• Strategic Distribution for Impactful Films: For niche or challenging subjects, a thoughtful distribution strategy involving limited theatrical releases followed by robust digital and streaming availability can effectively reach a broader audience, maximizing the film's impact and message beyond traditional box office metrics.

Final Verdict: Concluding Thoughts on "The Order": Chilling Thriller to Watch

The Order stands as a chilling and essential watch, not merely as a well-crafted thriller, but as a stark mirror reflecting the persistent shadows of extremism in society. Its powerful performances and unflinching portrayal of real historical events make it a significant contribution to the true-crime genre and a compelling piece of social commentary that remains profoundly relevant today.