---
title: "Mississippi Burning"
year: 1988
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/mississippi-burning-1988"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 1632
imdb_id: null
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 128
community_rating: 7.7
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "R"
---

# Mississippi Burning (1988) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/mississippi-burning-1988

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

"Mississippi Burning" is a 1988 film that explores the complexities of racial tensions in a small Southern town. The story revolves around the investigation into the murder of civil rights workers during a tumultuous period in American history. Two FBI agents, one of whom is a young agent trained at the FBI school, are tasked with uncovering the truth behind the murders. However, their differing backgrounds and approaches to law enforcement create tension, as the younger agent struggles to navigate the traditional ways of the small town. The film highlights the deep-seated divisions between black and white communities in the town, where segregation is a pervasive issue. Through their investigation, the agents seek to break down the conspiracy of silence that surrounds the murders, but the challenges they face are significant. The film offers a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of racial relations in a small Southern town.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "Two FBI agents investigate civil rights murders in a deeply segregated 1960s Southern town."

### Why Watch
- strong performances by a notable cast
- compelling investigation into a historical case

### Caveats & Content Note
- deals with heavy and violent historical themes
- features intense racial conflict
- Tone & Suitability: This film contains mature themes and depictions of intense racial tension and violence set during the 1960s.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: tense, gritty, dramatic, thriller

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/mississippi-burning-1988#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Alan Parker
- **Networks / Studios**: Orion Pictures, Frederick Zollo Productions

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Gene Hackman** as *Agent Rupert Anderson*
- **Willem Dafoe** as *Agent Alan Ward*
- **Frances McDormand** as *Mrs. Pell*
- **Brad Dourif** as *Deputy Clinton Pell*
- **R. Lee Ermey** as *Mayor Tilman*
- **Gailard Sartain** as *Sheriff Stuckey*
- **Stephen Tobolowsky** as *Townley*
- **Michael Rooker** as *Frank Bailey*
- **Pruitt Taylor Vince** as *Lester Cowens*
- **Badja Djola** as *Agent Monk*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When is the film set?
The film is set during the 1960s, specifically referencing the year 1964.

### Q: What is the main plot of the film?
Two FBI agents investigate the murder of civil rights workers and attempt to breach a conspiracy of silence in a divided Southern town.

### Q: Who directed the film?
The film was directed by Alan Parker.

### Q: Is the film based on real events?
Yes, the film is loosely based on a 1964 investigation.

### Q: Who are the main investigators in the story?
The investigation is handled by a younger FBI agent trained in school and his partner, who is a former sheriff.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*