88

This complex political thriller from writer/director Eromose falls just short of greatness.

The result is dramatically wonky — and eccentrically thought-provoking.

Overall, the approach proves too cluttered and diffused, especially if the goal — as it should be here — is to build real dramatic tension.

It’s possible to be a bit awed by the “JFK” ambition of 88, even if the execution waters down Eromose’s message to the point where we wonder if he’s simply lost his nerve.

While 88 has characters who have lots to say about the history of white supremacy, dark money in politics, and the delusion of fixing a corrupt system from within, this is a stiff, artless effort that barely makes the transition from explanatory journalism to fiction.