“By Any Means” – Trav’s Review

The Plot: A notorious mafia hitman and a young Black FBI agent team up to investigate the murders of civil rights leaders in 1966 in Mississippi.

The Infamous Mafia Assassin: Gregory Scarpa Unleashed

Mark Wahlberg portrayed the real-life character of Gregory Scarpa in the film, and his role was crucial for the FBI in obtaining answers and witness statements regarding the murder of civil rights activist Vernon Dahmer. Scarpa’s methods primarily involved physical coercion, which, while morally reprehensible, sometimes led to the necessary information to save lives or navigate the complexities of the legal system. It is a harsh reality that individuals in law enforcement can be susceptible to bribery and conspiracy.

Many people resort to vigilantism, believing that the legal system will not protect them. This sentiment is echoed in Jason Statham’s 2024 film “The Beekeeper,” where his character tells an FBI agent, “That is why there are people like me, because the law takes too long.” This line encapsulates the frustration felt by those who feel abandoned by the justice system.

The Intriguing Racial Complexities of By Any Means

The film uses the N-word frequently, which starkly reminds me of a time when racial discrimination was rampant, even though I wasn’t born until the 1980s. Watching movies based on true events like this highlights the harsh realities faced by Black individuals, who were denied access to certain places, forced to sit in designated areas on buses, and subjected to segregation, hatred, and prejudice. It saddens me deeply to reflect on how people behaved in those times and the fact that groups like the KKK still exist today, albeit in a diminished form compared to the era depicted in the film.

If you are sensitive to intense themes, I advise against watching this movie. However, it serves an important historical purpose, revealing the racial hatred, prejudice, and failure of law enforcement to respect their own colleagues based solely on race. The treatment of Black individuals as inferior and the use of derogatory language are painful reminders of our past.

The title of the movie doesn’t fully capture the essence of Gregory Scarpa’s actions. He did what he believed was necessary to uncover the answers the FBI sought, demonstrating that playing by the rules of democracy isn’t always effective. FBI Agent Wayne Strider learned this lesson through his experiences with Gregory Scarpa.

Choosing Flight or Embracing the Fight

Wayne’s wife, Allison, stood firmly by her husband, urging him to uphold his principles. She refused to abandon him and seek safety without his presence. Wherever he went, she followed, and he often called her stubborn for her unwavering commitment. However, her tenacity to confront the KKK and resist the advances of white supremacists was a testament to her strength. I can empathize with her perspective; fleeing does not resolve the issues at hand, and it allows oppressors to maintain control. By choosing to stay and fight, she demonstrated that she would not be easily intimidated.

Personally, I believe that in such tumultuous times, the decision to flee or stand one’s ground is complex. For individuals of color, it was often perilous to navigate society, and while I would not choose to run away, I would certainly avoid places where I knew I would not be welcomed or accepted. It is crucial to protect oneself and one’s family while also standing up against injustice. Balancing safety with the fight for equality is a difficult but necessary endeavor, and Allison’s choice to remain by Wayne’s side reflects a deep commitment to both love and resistance.