Nick Offerman stars in the thought-provoking film “Sovereign,” which examines the troubling impacts of extreme right-wing ideology through a gripping narrative. Directed by Christian Swegal, the film presents the poignant story of Jerry Kane (Offerman), an unemployed roofer and devoted single father to his homeschooled son, Joe (Jacob Tremblay). As Jerry becomes increasingly entrenched in the sovereign citizen movement—an anti-government ideology that denies federal authority—his radical beliefs begin to conflict with Joe’s yearning for a normal life, which includes the desire to attend a conventional school.
The film’s narrative unfolds as the duo travels across the country, selling debt relief seminars to struggling homeowners. It compellingly illustrates how people like Jerry, overwhelmed by an exploitative economic system, can get drawn into dangerous ideologies. The portrayal is nuanced, highlighting not only Jerry’s descent into extremism but also showcasing the emotional depth of his relationship with Joe. Their bond serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities involved in such movements, emphasizing that many disenfranchised individuals may find solace in extremist beliefs, not out of inherent prejudice, but from a place of profound frustration and disillusionment.
“Sovereign” is inspired by true events and does not shy away from the violent realities associated with the sovereign citizen movement. The film shines in its storytelling, prioritizing emotional depth and complexity over simplistic judgments. Offerman delivers a hauntingly relatable performance, stepping outside of his usual roles, while Tremblay’s portrayal of a boy caught between loyalty to his father and the pull of a more conventional upbringing adds layers of poignancy to the narrative.
The cast also features notable performances from Dennis Quaid as the police chief who epitomizes the law Jerry rejects, and Martha Plimpton in a memorable role as Jerry’s close friend. However, the film could have benefitted from a deeper exploration of how such ideologies affect women, which remains largely unaddressed.
As a slow-burn crime drama, “Sovereign” builds tension toward a climactic moment that leaves viewers with a poignant sense of reflection. Its exploration of extremist ideologies amidst turbulent societal dynamics resonates more than ever, reminding us of the potential dangers lurking within disenfranchised communities desperate for a sense of belonging.
Premiering at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, “Sovereign” is set to be released theatrically by Briarcliff Entertainment on July 11, 2025. The film offers a relevant discourse on the factors driving individuals toward radical movements and emphasizes the importance of understanding the human stories behind these ideologies.