Jude Law shines in 'The Order'

History is full of dark tales and near misses. Both come together in The Order, a new film from Justin Kurzel that is based on true events. Though it happened decades in the past, the events ring true for audiences today, making it a timely watch to kick start December.

The film is based on the non-fiction book The Silent Brotherhood, which revolves around a violent white supremacist group known as the Order. The group, led by the charismatic Bob Matthews, used a series of armed robberies to raise funds for their operations and had plans to make bigger statements.

The film is set in Idaho in 1983, where FBI Agent Terry Husk (Law) has come for a bit of quiet. He’s trying to convince his family to relocate and trying to take it easy after a big health scare. But he can’t quite quit the gut feelings he has. Husk has long been a top investigator, and when he starts to see a pattern in some local crimes, he can’t help but push the issue.

He teams with a local deputy, Jamie Bowen (Tye Sheridan), who also wants to dig into the crimes in the area. Together they pursue a group of robberies throughout the Pacific Northwest and see the connection to local hate groups.

Soon, the investigation points toward Matthews (Nicholas Hoult). While the young leader is working to build his organization and consolidate his power, the investigation is closing in. All of it leads to a brutal confrontation as Husk tries to reign in the violence.

This film moves at a good pace and has a strong look. Kurzel does a beautiful job of capturing the natural area. He also brings good pacing and tension to the action sequences, which hold your attention and add to the drama. It’s at times a visually engaging film that takes you on a journey.

It’s a story that many likely won’t be familiar with. While it’s taking place in the early 1980s, it feels like the kind of group and kind of story you might see today. That gives you plenty to think about as you’re watching the events unfold.

I also liked the performances. Sheridan brings some gravitas to his role that helps ground the story, while Hoult brings his charm to the character of Matthews. But this is about Law, who holds the story and production together. He gives a solid performance in the lead role that carries the narrative.

The Order is an engaging action thriller that gets December off to a good start. It opens nationwide on Friday, December 6.