The Devil You Know
Crime drama is diverse but has violence, lackluster story.
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The Devil You Know
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Devil You Know is a dramatic thriller about a man named Marcus Cowan (Omar Epps), who must decide whether to turn his brother in for a crime, which could destroy his family. Expect violence -- murder, a pistol whipping, descriptions of death and beatings -- as well as strong language ("s--t," "f--k," the "N" word, and more), implied sex, crude comments, drinking, and drug references. The film also offers strong representation both on camera and off and depicts a loving Black family.
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What's the Story?
In THE DEVIL YOU KNOW, Marcus Cowan (Omar Epps) is a man who has reached sobriety after dealing with alcohol dependency and is ready to start a new life. His family supports him, but his resolve to stay sober and on the right path is tested when his brother, Drew (William Catlett), takes part in a heinous crime. Marcus is then faced with the daunting decision of whether to turn his brother in to the cops, even though doing so could destroy his family's tight-knit relationship.
Is It Any Good?
This movie wants to be two films at once, and it doesn't quite seem to know how to meld its more tender moments into its crime drama storyline. Because of this, The Devil You Know is confusing, especially when you get to the end. While it's supposed to be about a man's moral conflict about turning his brother in, the film ultimately seems more interested in portraying a Black family on-screen.
Indeed, the moments with just the family are the film's best. There's realism between the actors, with the movie expertly showcasing a Black family that's focused on togetherness, love, and selflessness. It might have worked better if The Devil You Know had been a more standard family drama, like Soul Food, since that's where writer-director Charles Murray shines the most. It's once the film starts trying to tell a morality story loosely pulling from the Biblical tale of Cain and Abel that things get fuzzy and don't feel fully worked out. It's hard to reconcile the movie's beautiful family moments with the idea that some of the family members would want to turn a blind eye to injustice. Pair that with Ealy not having much to do in the film, and The Devil You Know is a good premise helmed by a filmmaker who seems only half-invested.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about family dynamics. What kind of relationships are in play within the Cowan family?
How does Marcus demonstrate his morality when faced with reporting his brother's crime?
How does Marcus' family, especially his brother, test Marcus' integrity?
What role does violence play in the story? Do you think it's necessary to the plot?
Talk about diverse representation. Why does representation matter in the media?
Movie Details
- In theaters: April 1, 2022
- On DVD or streaming: May 31, 2022
- Cast: Omar Epps, Michael Ealy, Glynn Turman, William Catlett, Vanessa Bell Calloway
- Director: Charles Murray
- Studio: Lionsgate
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters
- Character Strengths: Courage, Integrity
- Run time: 116 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: language throughout, some violence and sexual references
- Last updated: December 23, 2022
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