This stylized film comes at a time where racism is being brought further and further into the forefront of the American public. The film has a dramatic edge and somehow maintains a comedic value which kept me engaged in the storyline and every single one of the characters. Each character is given a different point of view on racism, creating a detailed story that unfolds as the characters discuss the most important struggle at their school. As a political science major who has taken classes on racism, I have seen various points of views on the topic myself and this film seems to tackle all of them.
Throughout the movie, filmmaker Justin Simien builds a connection between the audience and each of the characters. At one point, I felt that Sam White (played by Tessa Thompson) had the most valid points. Yet at other times Lionel Higgins (played by Tyler James Williams) seemed the most innocent character and the most ideologically connectable character. Over time, all of the characters endure a change that either contributes or takes away from their points of view on racism. All of this leads up to a great twist at the end of the film!
Simien also creates a fresh style for the film through the sleekness seen on screen. On-screen text appears every so often, bringing the audience directly into the film. At times, it seems as though the audience is receiving the text messages that are displayed on screen. Simien also brings the audience into the film through his use of medium close up shots. I always felt as though I was in the middle of the conversations with each character.
The Bottom Line: This film has a fresh and sleek view on racism through its strong character studies and stylized imagery.
Score: 9.4/10
Throughout the movie, filmmaker Justin Simien builds a connection between the audience and each of the characters. At one point, I felt that Sam White (played by Tessa Thompson) had the most valid points. Yet at other times Lionel Higgins (played by Tyler James Williams) seemed the most innocent character and the most ideologically connectable character. Over time, all of the characters endure a change that either contributes or takes away from their points of view on racism. All of this leads up to a great twist at the end of the film!
Simien also creates a fresh style for the film through the sleekness seen on screen. On-screen text appears every so often, bringing the audience directly into the film. At times, it seems as though the audience is receiving the text messages that are displayed on screen. Simien also brings the audience into the film through his use of medium close up shots. I always felt as though I was in the middle of the conversations with each character.
The Bottom Line: This film has a fresh and sleek view on racism through its strong character studies and stylized imagery.
Score: 9.4/10
