Barry Jenkins’ “The Underground Railroad”: A Masterful Adaptation

Barry Jenkins’ “The Underground Railroad,” a 10-episode limited series on Amazon Prime Video, transcends a typical novel adaptation. Based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize winner, it delves into the harrowing realities of slavery and racism in America.

The series follows Cora, a young woman escaping a Georgia plantation via a literal underground railroad with tracks and trains. This fantastical element, borrowed from the novel, allows exploration of broader themes like oppression, resilience, and racial justice. Each episode showcases Cora’s experiences in different states and the varying forms of racism and resistance she faces.

Cora’s journey is not just physical but a profound psychological exploration of trauma and healing. The series portrays the fear and paranoia of a fugitive slave, constantly pursued by the relentless slave catcher Ridgeway. Joel Edgerton’s chilling performance as Ridgeway embodies white supremacy’s pursuit of control. The chase between Cora and Ridgeway creates a captivating narrative.

Jenkins uses cinematic techniques to enhance the story’s impact. Shifting aspect ratios, dreamlike sequences, and extended silences create unease and disorientation, mirroring Cora’s experiences. The recurring motif of clanking metal in the sound design serves as a constant reminder of slavery and the threat of recapture.

While focused on American slavery, the series explores universal themes of trauma, resilience, and identity. Cora’s journey resonates with anyone who has faced hardship and sought freedom and healing. The series centers the Black experience, forcing viewers to confront their own complicity in oppressive systems. “The Underground Railroad” offers a profound meditation on racism’s legacy and the ongoing fight for liberation.