This 2023 American drama film written and directed by Minal Baig is finally debuting on the big screen. Winner of the Changemaker Award and Best US feature at the Chicago International Film Festival. For those who grew up in the inner city, will definitely have a flashback moment. This film takes you back in time dealing with jobs, education, police, race, and family issues which really mirrors what is still happening today. This film will have you emotionally whooped but also encouraging for you to be the best and never doubting despite where you live.
The story takes place in the city of Chicago, the year 1992. We find these two boys Malik (played by Blake Cameron James) and Eric (played by Gian Knight Ramirez) are best friends. Malik has an extraordinary imagination and uses it to escape the reality of what they face everyday at the housing complex. The boys friendship takes a hit when child in their neighborhood is tragically killed. Despite the negative vibe that has loomed the place, Malik remains hopefully and tries to keep his friend uplifted. These two young talents really hone in on their roles.
Another character we must highlight is Dolores (played by Jurnee Smollet) who is Malik's mom. She is a single mother raising two kids and her mother lives them. Like that fact that she has a career and not the typical black women on welfare. She capabilities that are out of this but is afraid to make a move towards getting out Cabrini-Green. She also has the ability to use her imagination help deal with situations that seem bleak and turn it into positive energy. Wonder where Malik got it from? Jurnee embodies this character (as she she does in any role she plays), and have the audience feeling the burden as mother.
One more character want to point out is Jason (played by Lil Rel Howry), he is Eric father. He is a single father raising two kids because his wife died. He tries to instill good values to Eric even though they are living in a tough situation and dealing with the lost of their loved one. Lil Rel shows his serious side and he did it well.
This wonderfully written and performed piece will have you wanting to hug your kids and care for people. Guess We Grown Up.
This is a (4/4) 🍿🍿🍿🍿 must 👀 in theaters starting April 26th....