POSITIVES…
This is a movie that wears it’s social commentaries and political messaging on it’s sleeve, and it says a lot that’s worth acknowledging. Art reflects modern times, and I have to respect the film maker’s decision to go all-in on the matter.
It’s also a road trip movie that takes us to many different interesting locations, have us encounter many different interesting people, and see our main leads do some interesting things. Probably my favorite aspect of the movie.
The trailer suggested it, but the movie is an outlaw story as well. The way this movie handles that subject matter is very “Bonnie & Clyde,” and a great insight into celebrity culture too.
This also happens to be a romantic movie involving two very different individuals who should not have chemistry together. I enjoyed the journey these two characters took, from where they stood in the beginning of the movie, all the way to the end.
Speaking of individuals. Daniel Kaluuya is great as “Slim.” Jodie Turner-Smith is fascinating as “Queen.” Bokeem Woodbine is entertaining as “Uncle Earl.”
There’s also a poetic and very artistic style to the way this film is directed, and how the narrative flows.
NEGATIVES…
The movie felt way too long, and too slow at times. Can we get some editing here?
Don’t hate me for saying this, but it took me a very long time to warm up to the character of “Queen.” I was so very annoyed with her for a good chunk of the story.
The importance of the social political messaging and all, but wow could this movie hit us over the head with it. Especially especially especially one particular scene involving Jahi Di'Allo Winston’s character. Really? Did that really have to happen to prove an obvious point?
Speaking of characters. Despite the fact there were moments of characters making smart decisions, there seemed to be more moments were stupidity ruled.
It’s easy to say that there’s a certain predictability to the story, that kinda killed some of what would have been effective surprises in the plot’s progression.
So many plot conveniences and coincidences. I felt like it could have been a drinking game to spot them all.
Unfortunately, the promotional trailers makes it easy to think that this is a cop-hating movie, and it’s a shame that many people will think that. There are good people in law enforcement featured in the movie too.
P.S….
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