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For some people, every day feels like a struggle to survive—to scrape up enough money to pay for their basic needs. And in the crime thriller Breaking, one desperate man can’t take it anymore—so he makes a desperate move in an attempt to make his voice heard.
Breaking was inspired by the true story of Brian Brown-Easley (John Boyega), a Marine veteran who’s reached his breaking point. After being denied his disability payment from the VA, Brian can no longer pay for his room at a cheap motel, and he’s run out of minutes on his pay-as-you-go phone. With nowhere else to turn, Brian walks into a Wells Fargo branch and holds the bank and two of its managers hostage—not with the intention of stealing from the bank but because he needs someone to hear his side of the story.
Though he walks into the bank with a note informing the teller that he has a bomb—that he plans to blow up the building if his voice isn’t heard—it’s clear from the start that Brian isn’t a violent criminal. He isn’t a killer—or even a bank robber. He’s a distressed man who just doesn’t know what else to do. He’s polite, courteous, and apologetic to those trapped inside the bank with him. He makes a point of calling his daughter and ex-wife to make sure that they’re okay. He’s a good man who deserves better—and despite the terrible situation that he’s put everyone in, you can’t help but feel sorry for this man who’s simply a victim of a flawed system.
Brian’s story may be quite simple, but the tension of the situation and the powerful performances keep the pace from dragging too much. John Boyega is remarkable in the starring role, portraying all of the fear, the anger, and even the paranoia that play into the character’s choices. And though the cast here is relatively small, each cast member helps to build the drama and tension of this hostage situation—from the two women who find themselves trapped inside and fearing for their lives (Nicole Beharie and Selenis Leyva) to the negotiator (Michael K. Williams) who becomes emotionally connected to Brian and his situation. As the minutes pass—as the crowds of law enforcement agencies gather outside—the pressure builds. And when the standoff finally comes to its emotional end, you’ll need a few minutes to catch your breath.
This story of a desperate man forced to take desperate measures is often painful to watch—even more so because it’s a heartbreaking true story. But the stressful situation and several strong performances make it a film that you won’t soon forget.
Breaking arrives in theaters on August 26, 2022.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
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