Marshall: the historical relevance of Thurgood Marshall is undeniable, as is momentous the telling of his story at this particular juncture. However, Reginald Hudlin decided to tell his story as a rather run-of-the-mill courtroom drama, and somehow manages to make Marshall a supporting character in his own film. It’s also a simplistic, uninteresting character, one that doesn’t invite much sympathy or appreciation. The performances are likewise uninspired, but one can’t blame Chadwick Boseman or Josh Gad if there’s nothing on the page.The film has the typical shiny, clean period look of mid-range films; it’s mildly competent but bland and boring. The song “Stand Up for Something” is powerful, but has neither aesthetic connection with the film nor bearing to the story.