Gene Hackman, the Oscar-winning legend known for his roles in iconic 20th Century films such as The French Connection and The Conversation, has tragically passed away alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa.
The couple was found deceased at their Santa Fe home, leaving fans across the globe in mourning.
Hackman’s illustrious career spanned various genres, including Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven and the comedy-drama The Birdcage, not to mention his memorable portrayal of Lex Luthor in the Superman movies starring Christopher Reeve.
As tributes pour in, fans seeking to relive Hackman’s powerful performances can turn to Amazon Prime Video, which is streaming one of his finest works, Mississippi Burning.
In this 1988 historical drama, Hackman delivers a riveting performance as FBI Agent Rupert Anderson, delving into the murder of civil rights workers in 1960s Mississippi with his partner, played by Willem Dafoe.
The film, which confronts the brutal reality of racist violence, earned seven Academy Award nominations and remains a poignant depiction of the Civil Rights Movement and the Ku Klux Klan.
A film enthusiast praised Hackman’s role on an online forum, stating: “His performance in Mississippi Burning is one of the best I’ve ever seen. Wow! An absolute dynamite and definitely his best from the very few I’ve seen.
“It’s not a showy role, and it might feel similar to his character in the French Connection but there’s something so real about him in Mississippi, you’re totally with him the entire time.”
On Google, an audience member wrote: “Truly this is such a masterpiece, one that really shows, tells and portrays, how cruel and unjust the events of the ‘Mississippi Burning’ was, along with how brutal it was with a strong message as well that pierces your heart and reminds all of us how much cruel, evil, and dark the world was way back than.”
Another added, “I saw this when it first came out and have seen this many times since and never tire of it.
“Outstanding cast and the best Gene Hackman film in my view. Dafoe also brilliant.”
One more review said, “Above all is the performance of Gene Hackman. He should have won best actor for this.”
A review on the film social network Letterboxd said, “One of the most powerful, uncompromising, painfully relevant films out there to focus on racial hatred and prejudice, Mississippi Burning represents yet another terrific work from director Alan Parker, featuring one of Gene Hackman’s finest performances in his long and noteworthy career, brutally honest no-nonsense writing and direction, and phenomenal cinematography and production design throughout.”
Finally, another review gushed: “Probably one of the most compelling movies ever made.
“Seeing this almost 30 years after watching it for the first time in the movie theatre, it still brings shivers down my spine.
“Gene Hackman at his best in a perfect combo with Willem Dafoe. This film is near by perfect.”
Alongside Mississippi Burning, fans can also enjoy a collection of Hackman’s notable films on the streaming platform, including Under Suspicion, Runaway Jury and Split Decisions.
Mississippi Burning is available to stream on Prime Video.