In 1853, two groups of enslaved people in Boone County, Kentucky, decided to seek their freedom by escaping to Canada. Through a treacherous journey under the cover of darkness, the “Escape of the 28” remains a testament to what it means to be born free and to fight for that freedom. Based on the true historical account of this courageous journey, the film invites us to witness the fate of these 28 souls.
Director Charles K. Campbell conducted extensive research for Escape 28, and it shows. With a story created by Betty Ann Smiddy and Diana Porter and a screenplay by Campbell, this film is a somber reminder of a grim chapter in our nation’s history. The reality that a time once existed where the enslavement of human beings was not only legal but a metric of wealth remains difficult to grasp.
Although this is a story that has been told before, this production focuses on the strength, courage, and leadership of the enslaved rather than merely portraying them as passive and helpless. Such leadership is brought to the screen with raw power by Tillie Barker (Ursaline Bryant), who refuses to believe she has no rights to the life she dreams of. After learning that Tillie is about to be sold, she and her husband, Washington, brought to life with brilliance by Bryant Bentley, decide to take matters into their own hands. Leading the second group is Daniel Britt as the controversial white abolitionist John Fairfield. Based on the real-life conductor of the Underground Railroad, Fairfield’s inventive and often daring methods, such as posing as an undertaker, a poultry dealer, or a businessman, are on full display.
“Two groups of enslaved people in Boone County, Kentucky, decided to seek their freedom…”
Escape 28 is an overall well-executed film. As an indie project, great care was taken with the production design and costumes, featuring sweeping views captured by director of photography Michael Avenson. The music by Augustus O. Hill, best known for blending African-American spirituals with classical forms, blends beautifully with the original score by Tim Claughbaugh Jr. Although some scenes feel a bit jarring in how they conclude or transition, the editing work by Ben Devine keeps the action progressing to its final crescendo.
This period of our country’s history is a stain that this film does not shy away from. It emphasizes the interracial cooperation required to sustain the Underground Railroad, showcasing the bravery of those who risked their lives to assist the “fugitives,” both white and Black. One hopes that with the passing of time, the ignorance of the past can be left behind. In one poignant moment, a character states that although we call ourselves Christians, no God-fearing person would mistreat another human being the way they did. Escape 28 is a significant entry in the historical drama genre that will interest historians and casual viewers alike, and I recommend it.
"…A somber reminder of a grim chapter in our nation’s history."
