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Wahlberg & Mateen II: Violence vs. Justice
4 Sep
Summary
- Film explores KKK murder of civil rights leader in 1966 Mississippi.
- Wahlberg plays hitman, Abdul-Mateen II an FBI agent investigating.
- Critics debate the film's message on violence and revenge.
Set against the backdrop of 1966 Mississippi, By Any Means cinematicizes the investigation into the murder of a civil rights leader by the Ku Klux Klan. The film pairs mob hitman Greg Scarpa, portrayed by Mark Wahlberg, with FBI agent Wayne Strider, played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II.
Their differing methods highlight a central theme, with Scarpa's willingness to use force contrasting with Strider's investigation. Critics have offered a range of opinions on director Elegance Bratton's work, with performances from Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Nicole Beharie receiving consistent praise.
The movie's narrative explores the complex relationship between violence and justice, prompting debate among reviewers. Some find the film to be a gripping action thriller, while others question its underlying message and intended audience, noting a Rotten Tomatoes score of 58%. By Any Means premiered in theaters on September 4, 2026.
