The Burial

The events unfold in the mid-1990s, beginning in 1995, a period marked by aggressive corporate expansion and high-stakes civil litigation. The narrative follows Jeremiah O'Keefe's financial collapse and the ensuing legal fight, spanning a couple of years and culminating in a landmark verdict. The era's social tensions, including race and community impact, inform the courtroom battle.

Mississippi serves as the setting where the Mississippi State Insurance Commission investigates the Loewen Group and where the civil battle against predatory practices unfolds. Florida is shown as the base of Willie Gary's practice, highlighting a regional contrast with corporate power in Mississippi. The courtroom becomes the central arena where truth, compensation, and accountability are pursued.

⚖️ Justice

The central drive is to secure justice for minority communities harmed by predatory pricing and overpriced funeral plans. The film explores how legal strategy, public opinion, and community backing shape a transformative verdict. It frames justice as both a legal outcome and a moral response to exploitation.

✊ Racial Injustice

The narrative exposes racial dynamics within the legal system, including tensions around jury composition and credibility. It shows how race intersects with power, wealth, and the pursuit of compensation for communities that were exploited.

💼 Legal Strategy

The case hinges on tactical litigation, witness handling, and the clash between rival legal teams. The story highlights the psychology of courtroom battles, shifting loyalties, and the impact of strategic choices on the outcome.

💵 Greed and Consequences

Corporate greed drives the conflict, illustrating how predatory practices harm small businesses and communities. The pursuit of a large punitive award becomes a catalyst for accountability and the downfall of a powerful company.