Cold in July (2014) | How Woke Is It?

Our VerdictNot Woke

Cold in July2014

In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected speech. These reviews reflect personal opinions and not statements of fact.

What We Think

Cold in July is mostly immune to the typical markers of 'wokeness.' Its grounded storytelling and respect for traditional themes give it a refreshingly non-woke vibe. This is a gritty, old-school thriller that dodges modern Hollywood trends, definitely a rarity today.

Score Breakdown

Compromised:Narrative Integrity

Not Woke

What is this?

Cold in July keeps character-driven storytelling front and center. Casting and character arcs are grounded in realism, with clear character flaws and growth. There's no sense that identity boxes drive the narrative or character choices, making it a breath of fresh air compared to many recent releases.

Compromised:Cultural Foundations

Not Woke

What is this?

The film stays true to classic themes: family, masculinity, and personal responsibility all play central roles without being undermined or mocked. Traditional values are treated with nuance, not as material for easy subversion. If anything, it feels like a throwback to a pre-woke era of filmmaking.

Compromised:Ideological Monoculture

Not Woke

What is this?

Alternative viewpoints are not caricatured or villainized. The story provides some moral ambiguity and inner conflict, with no signs of a preachy, one-note worldview. It avoids the typical dogmas found in more modern, ideologically homogenous movies.

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Disclaimer: In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected as a form of free speech and freedom of expression. The reviews and commentary on this site represent personal opinions and interpretations. They are not statements of fact and should not be taken as factual claims about any individual, company, or creative work.