is a flawed masterpiece. The pacing drags slightly in the second act, and the controversy surrounding the Garrett family might leave a bad taste for some. However, as a piece of historical storytelling, it is essential viewing.
The Banker review – Apple's first movie is a slick yet patchy racism drama Film The Banker
was genuinely a prodigy. By his early 20s, he owned a significant portfolio of real estate in Los Angeles, including a 34-unit apartment building. However, when he tried to move into banking, he hit an impenetrable wall of racism. is a flawed masterpiece
"The Banker" is set against the backdrop of 1960s-70s New York City, a time of great social and economic change. The film captures the essence of the era, from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the opulent world of high finance. The movie's attention to period detail is impressive, with meticulous costumes, sets, and cinematography that transport viewers to a bygone era. The Banker review – Apple's first movie is
The Banker is not a perfect film. At times, its pacing is glacial, and its secondary characters (particularly the wives) are underwritten archetypes. Yet, as a piece of political cinema, it is remarkably potent. It rejects the easy catharsis of the "great man" triumph, instead offering a sobering thesis: that genius and integrity are no match for a system that doesn’t recognize your humanity.
Without delving into unproven allegations, the result was swift: Apple TV+ delayed the release, removed the film from the AFI Fest lineup, and issued a statement acknowledging the family's concerns. An independent investigation was launched. Ultimately, Apple released the film with a disclaimer that it was "based on true events" but dramatized for storytelling.
The 2020 film is a compelling financial drama that unearths a largely forgotten chapter of American history. Directed by George Nolfi and released as a flagship original for Apple TV+, the movie follows the incredible true story of two Black entrepreneurs, Bernard Garrett and Joe Morris, who strategically outmaneuvered the systemic racism of the 1950s and '60s. Plot Summary: A High-Stakes Financial Caper