🪶 Story & Synopsis
“Burning Sands” is a riveting 2017 drama film directed by Gerard McMurray and co-written with Christine Berg. The story revolves around Zurich Condoll, played by Trevor Jackson, a student at Frederick Douglass University who takes pride in pledging at a renowned African-American fraternity. However, strict anti-hazing regulations force their Hell Week activities underground, leading the veteran fraternity members to descend into a group of brutal, intoxicated, and sadistic individuals.
The film delves into the dark world of college hazing, shedding light on the gruesome initiation rituals that are often associated with fraternity life. Drawing inspiration from real-life events, director Gerard McMurray based the film on his personal experiences and the tragic incident involving Robert Champion, the FAMU drum major who lost his life in a hazing ritual in Orlando, Florida.
As the narrative unfolds, Zurich finds himself torn between upholding the fraternity’s code of silence and confronting the escalating violence and brutality of the underground hazing practices. The movie skillfully navigates themes of tradition, loyalty, power dynamics, and the destructive nature of group mentality within the context of Greek life on an African-American university campus.
Through a compelling blend of drama, tension, and social commentary, “Burning Sands” offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities and consequences of blind allegiance to tradition and the dangerous allure of power dynamics within tightly knit organizations. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact that unchecked traditions and rituals can have on individuals and communities.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Trevor Jackson, Alfre Woodard, Trevante Rhodes, Steve Harris, DeRon Horton, Rotimi, Serayah, Tosin Cole, Malik Bazille, Octavius J. Johnson, Davyon St. Usaire, Mitchell Edwards, Nafessa Williams, Christian Robinson, Imani Hakim, Raquel Bianca John
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Trevor Jackson | Zurich |
| Tosin Cole | Frank |
| DeRon Horton | Square |
| Malik Bazille | Dwight |
| Octavius J. Johnson | Ron |
| Alfre Woodard | Prof. Hughes |
| Steve Harris | Dean Richardson |
| Rotimi Edwin | Serayah Angel |
| Nafessa Williams | toya |
| Imani Hakim | Rochon |
| Bianca John Joy | Raquel |
| Racquel Bianca John Joy | Dominique Marie Tiffany |
| Segun Akande | Malcolm |
| Keenan Echols | Turell |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Hey there, movie buffs! Ready to dive into the fiery world of fraternity initiations and college hazing with “Burning Sands”? Let’s peel back the layers of this thought-provoking film and see what it’s all about.
Imagine a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of brotherhood, loyalty, and the dark side of initiation rituals. “Burning Sands” takes you on a journey that leaves you questioning society’s norms and values.
Plot:
- The movie delves into the extreme hazing practices within a black college fraternity, shedding light on the brutal realities faced by aspiring members.
- As we follow a group of freshmen navigating through a week of intense humiliation and violence, we witness the thin line between tradition and abuse.
Tone & Themes:
- The tone is intense, gripping, and at times unsettling as it explores themes of power dynamics, loyalty, and the price one pays for acceptance.
- “Burning Sands” challenges viewers to reflect on the consequences of blind obedience and the impact of toxic masculinity in institutionalized settings.
Acting & Characters:
- The performances are raw and convincing, drawing you into the emotional turmoil experienced by each character.
- You’ll find yourself empathizing with their struggles, internal conflicts, and moral dilemmas as they navigate through a harrowing rite of passage.
Direction & Production:
- Gerald McMurray’s direction brings authenticity to the screen, capturing the essence of camaraderie, fear, and defiance within the fraternity culture.
- The production design immerses you in the world of college life, showcasing both its vibrant spirit and dark underbelly with equal finesse.
Cinematography & Score:
- The cinematography skillfully captures the intensity of each scene, enhancing both dramatic moments and quiet reflections with visual flair.
- The score sets the mood perfectly, heightening suspense during pivotal moments and adding depth to emotional sequences.
Binge-Watching Tip: Brace yourself for an emotional rollercoaster but remember to take breaks between intense scenes to process the heavy themes presented in “Burning Sands.”
So, is “Burning Sands” worth your time? Absolutely! It’s a gripping exploration of brotherhood gone awry that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll. Get ready for an eye-opening experience!
Rating: 8/10
In conclusion, “Burning Sands” isn’t just about fraternity rituals; it’s a mirror reflecting society’s darker facets. Watch it for its powerful storytelling and compelling performances. Remember: Stay true to yourself even when faced with flames of conformity!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Well-made and thought-provoking film | Intense and brutal hazing scenes may be disturbing for some viewers |
| Believable performances | May lack originality in storyline |
| Compelling story that challenges viewers | Some viewers may find the film too grim or dark |
| Sheds light on college hazing rituals | Not focused solely on Omega Psi Phi fraternity |
| Addresses important themes of brotherhood and activism | May not offer a satisfying resolution for all viewers |
Feedback
-
Burning Sands (2017 film) - Wikipedia
102 minutes Country United States Language English Burning Sandsis a 2017 American drama film, directed by Gerard McMurray, from a screenplay by McMurray and Christine Berg. It stars Trevor Jackson, Alfre Woodard, Steve Harris, Tosin Cole, DeRon Horton and Trevante Rhodes.The film had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 2017, before being released on March 10, 2017, by Netflix.
-
Burning Sands (2017) - IMDb
helpful•36
- cthomas-07553
- Nov 16, 2018
- How long is Burning Sands?Powered by Alexa
Details
- Runtime1 hour 36 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 2.35 : 1
Contribute to this page
Suggest an edit or add missing content
-
Burning Sands movie review & film summary (2017) | Roger Ebert
“Burning Sands,” Gerald McMurray’s feature filmmaking debut, is one of the fresher entries, thanks mainly to its setting: a historically black fraternity on a historically black campus like Howard, the university where the co-writer and director got his degree. Spike Lee’s second feature “School Daze” had a subplot set in a black frat and showcased a lot of hazing, but the scenes were played mainly for very grim laughs. “Sands” presents itself in trailers as a comedy along those lines, but it’s no joke. McMurray’s strongest virtue is his ability to thread that comedy-drama needle while he tells the story of Zurich (Trevor Jackson), aka Z, into Lambda Phi, a prestigious Greek organization once attended by the school’s dean (Steve Harris), who proposes the young man for membership.
-
Watch Burning Sands | Netflix Official Site
UNLIMITED TV SHOWS & MOVIESSIGN INPromising student Zurich opens his eyes to some hard truths when his fraternity’s violent hazing escalates into a disastrous hell night.Starring:Trevor Jackson, Alfre Woodard, Trevante RhodesWatch all you want.Watch offlineDownload and watch everywhere you go.GenresThis movie is…Cerebral, GrittyAudioGerman, English – Audio Description, English [Original], Spanish (Latin America), French, ItalianSubtitlesEnglish, Spanish (Latin America), French, Simplified Chinese, Traditional ChineseCast
-
Burning Sands (2017) | Rotten Tomatoes
Burning Sandscovers familiar territory, but Trevor Jackson’s layered performance and director/co-writer Gerard McMurray’s empathetic approach help set it apart.
Burning SandsWhere to WatchBurning Sands
Watch Burning Sands with a subscription on Netflix.
What to KnowCritics ReviewsAudience ReviewsCast & Crew
Gerard McMurrayDirectorTrevor JacksonZurichAlfre WoodardProfessor HughesSteve HarrisDean RichardsonTosin ColeFrankDeRon HortonSquare
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In “Burning Sands,” the director and cast delve into the intense and thought-provoking ending of the movie. The film revolves around the harsh realities of hazing within a black fraternity, leaving viewers in a grim and somewhat ambiguous space at the conclusion.
The protagonist, Zurich, along with his pledge brothers, is gearing up for Hell Night, the final stage of their grueling hazing ritual. Zurich has been struggling under the weight of the hazing, facing personal losses and physical harm. Despite his hardships, Zurich shows resilience and determination, especially after submitting a paper on Frederick Douglass, which rejuvenates him.
During Hell Night, the pledges are subjected to dehumanizing tasks, including eating dog food. When Zurich’s friend, Frank, struggles with the task, Zurich steps in to help, leading to a violent altercation with the senior fraternity members. The situation escalates, resulting in Frank being severely beaten to the point of foaming at the mouth, needing urgent medical attention.
The turning point comes when Zurich, despite the orders to leave, chooses to stay by Frank’s side, along with his pledge brothers, showing loyalty and solidarity. The film ends with a slow and shaky tracking shot of Zurich in the hospital waiting room, leaving the fate of Frank uncertain. The distant voices of doctors confirm Frank’s death due to a traumatic aortic rupture, hinting at the impending consequences for the fraternity and individuals involved.
The director’s decision to leave the aftermath of Frank’s death open to interpretation allows the audience to reflect on the impact of hazing, loyalty, and brotherhood. The ending of “Burning Sands” leaves a lasting impression, prompting viewers to contemplate the complexities of the characters’ choices and the consequences of their actions.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-MA
Age Rating: 18+
Parental Guide:
“Burning Sands” is a 2017 American drama film that delves into the intense world of fraternity hazing in an African-American university setting. The movie contains themes of violence, cursing, and sexual content, making it suitable for mature audiences aged 18 and above. Here is a detailed parental guide to help you navigate the content:
- Violence: The film portrays intense scenes of fraternity hazing, including physical and psychological violence towards pledges. It includes depictions of physical abuse, humiliation, and emotional distress.
- Sexual Content: There are references to sexual activity, including discussions about sex and implied sexual situations. While there are no explicit sex scenes, the topic is present throughout the film.
- Profanity: The movie contains frequent use of strong language, including profanity, vulgar terms, and derogatory language.
- Drug and Alcohol Use: There are scenes showing characters drinking alcohol and using substances, contributing to the overall intense atmosphere of the film.
- Thematic Elements: The film explores themes of peer pressure, masculinity, loyalty, and the consequences of hazing rituals within college fraternities.
Parents should be aware that “Burning Sands” is not suitable for younger audiences due to its mature themes and graphic content. It is recommended for adults and older teenagers who can understand and process the complex issues presented in the movie.”
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Currently you are able to watch ‘Burning Sands’ streaming on Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads or for free with ads on The Roku Channel, VUDU Free, Tubi TV, Freevee. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
It's easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.
If there is no struggle, there is no progress.
🤖Burning Sands Reddit Talks
Burning Sands: A Critical Examination of Fraternity Hazing
Introduction
“Burning Sands,” a 2017 Netflix Original movie, delves into the dark world of fraternity hazing through the experiences of African-American pledges at an unnamed university. The film’s raw portrayal of excessive hazing and its devastating consequences has sparked important discussions on social media platforms like Reddit.
The Dangers of Hazing
One of the central themes explored in “Burning Sands” is the inherent danger of hazing rituals. The film depicts the physical and emotional toll that these rituals take on the pledges, culminating in the tragic death of Frank, one of the main characters. Reddit users expressed their outrage over the brutality depicted in the film, with many condemning the “code of silence” that often surrounds hazing incidents.
The Personal Toll
Beyond the physical injuries, “Burning Sands” also highlights the psychological impact of hazing. The pledges are subjected to relentless humiliation, sleep deprivation, and psychological manipulation. Redditors shared their own experiences with hazing, both positive and negative, and discussed the lasting effects it can have on individuals.
The Role of Institutions
The film raises questions about the role of universities and fraternities in preventing hazing. Reddit users debated the effectiveness of anti-hazing policies and the responsibility of institutions to ensure the safety of their students. Some argued that universities need to do more to crack down on hazing, while others emphasized the importance of holding fraternities accountable for their actions.
The Power of Individual Choice
Despite the intense pressure to conform, “Burning Sands” also explores the power of individual choice. The protagonist, Zurich, faces a moral dilemma when he witnesses the escalating violence during “Hell Week.” Redditors praised Zurich’s courage and discussed the importance of speaking out against injustice, even when it is difficult.
The Need for Change
The overwhelming consensus on Reddit is that hazing is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. Redditors called for stricter penalties for hazing offenses and a cultural shift that values respect and dignity over blind adherence to tradition.
The Legacy of “Burning Sands”
“Burning Sands” has been praised for its unflinching portrayal of hazing and its ability to spark important conversations. Reddit users expressed hope that the film will raise awareness about the dangers of hazing and inspire change on college campuses across the country.
Conclusion
“Burning Sands” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that has ignited a much-needed dialogue about the prevalence and dangers of fraternity hazing. Reddit discussions have provided a platform for individuals to share their experiences, debate solutions, and demand change. The film’s legacy lies in its ability to break the silence surrounding hazing and inspire a movement towards a more just and equitable society.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/NetflixBestOf/comments/5ysupg/us_burning_sands_2017_deep_into_hell_week_a/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Frat/comments/fplfx9/thoughts_on_burning_sands/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Frat/comments/5yrzw9/deleted_by_user/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/63ndd3/discussion_what_are_your_thoughts_on_burning_sands/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Frat/comments/12u9lra/do_yall_like_horror_films/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What was the point of the movie Burning Sands?
The purpose of the movie Burning Sands was to shine a light on the gruesome, almost barbaric initiation rituals associated with college hazing.
What story is Burning Sands based on?
Burning Sands is based on the personal experiences of the writer-director Gerard McMurray and was inspired by Robert Champion, the FAMU drum major killed in a hazing ritual in Orlando, Florida.
What happened to Frank in Burning Sands?
Frank in Burning Sands died of a ruptured aorta artery, as portrayed in the movie after the young neophyte fraternity brothers awaited his fate at the hospital.
What fraternity was Burning Sands based on?
In the Netflix film Burning Sands, director Gerard McMurray sheds light on the controversial side of Greek life through the story of Lambda Phi, a fictional black fraternity.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Lust Stories (2018) : Anthology film exploring modern relationships in India.
- The Chi (2018) : Drama series focusing on life in a neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago.
- Beats (2019) : A young talented musician and a teenage drug dealer cross paths in the music scene.
- Feed (2017) : A teenager’s online world is rocked when an embarrassing video goes viral.
- Seventeen (2019) : A teenage boy seeks to adopt an aging dog to prove his maturity.
- Semper Fi (2019) : A group of friends in the military face a moral dilemma.
- Isy Way Out (2018) : A comedy-drama about a young woman trying to find her way in life.
