The Banker

In the 1950s, two visionary African-American entrepreneurs, Bernard Garrett and Joe Morris, devise an audacious plan to circumvent racial limitations imposed by their local communities. They hire a white chauffeur, Matt Steiner, to pose as their business partner, allowing them to build a real estate and banking empire that will serve the Black community. Their success attracts the attention of powerful figures, leading to escalating risks and a fight for survival.

The Banker received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of the lead actors, the film's historical relevance, and its engaging narrative. However, some found the plot predictable and the tone occasionally uneven. Audiences appreciated the inspiring true story and the themes of overcoming adversity and racial injustice.

• Praised for strong lead performances, particularly from Anthony Mackie and Nicholas Hoult.
• Appreciated for shedding light on an overlooked true story of Black entrepreneurship and resistance.
• Some critics noted a conventional narrative structure and missed opportunities for deeper thematic exploration.

Google audience: Audiences generally enjoyed the film, highlighting the compelling true story, the excellent acting, and the important historical context. Many found it to be an inspiring and thought-provoking movie about overcoming systemic racism and achieving financial success against the odds.

The film was originally intended for a theatrical release in December 2019, but it was postponed due to controversy surrounding sexual assault allegations against one of the film's producers, Bernard Garrett Jr., who was also the son of the real Bernard Garrett.