“Devotion” portrays the true story of Jesse Brown and his historic legacy

Written by Daniella Garcia. Photo courtesy of Madi Wellborn.

Inspired by true events, the movie “Devotion” triumphantly honors the life and tribulations of Jesse Brown, a historic African-American naval aviator during the Korean War. Directed by J.D. Dillard, the film stars Jonathan Majors and Glen Powell – a star-studded cast.

“Devotion” is an aerial war epic about two elite US Navy pilots during the Korean War. The film is based on the 2014 book of the same name, written by Adam Makos.

Jesse, the main character of “Devotion,” is brilliantly portrayed by Jonathan Majors. The film explores the relationships, prejudices and moral code that Jesse lived by. It demonstrates the reality and true complexities of a man in his position while being a husband, aviator and wingman. His personal struggle was evident on the screen, as we watched how the external forces of his life, both good and bad, battled the internal pressures he placed upon himself to succeed.

A powerful moment in the film was when Jesse looks at himself in the mirror, spitting out painful slurs and statements he had to endure all his life. In the Q&A following the panel with Dillard and Majors, it was revealed that this scene was pulled from real life and a journal with all the horrible things people had said. 

Although at times the dynamic between Majors and Powell’s characters was a bit confounding, their complicated relationship with one another ultimately reflected real life. Christina Jackson’s performance as Daisy, Jesse’s wife, was an unexpected show-stopper. From her and Major’s intimate moments to her and Powell’s heartbreaking ones, her work left a lot to be celebrated. 

Overall comprised of stellar performances, gorgeous cinematography and an emotional score, the technical and thematic elements of “Devotion” blended together seamlessly, and were evidently made with great care and true intention.