Nickel Boys (2024)
A detailed portrait of the harsh reality of Jim Crow South, Nickel Boys captivates with vivid and abstract storytelling, unique imagery and perspective shifts, and themes of survival and empowerment.
Based on Colson Whitehead’s 2019 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this based-on-true-events story feels tragic and depressive to witness, yet is an accurate and realistic representation of the unfortunate reality that befaced African American communities at the time. At the fictional Nickel Academy (though based on a true reform school in Florida), our main characters, Elwood and Turner, face hardship and repression as they struggle to survive daily. Director RaMell Ross bleeds each frame with incalculable tension and a limited first-person gaze that makes these events feel more personified and impactful to the audience. His unique photography skills make this truly one-of-a-kind in a sea of representative awards fare. By capturing the mundaneness and stillness of life, Ross can present a reality that some take for granted, yet is tragically fleeting to those who face persecution daily. Each shot is beautifully calculated to represent a certain mood and is aesthetically pleasing to the eyes. Bright colors and natural sunlight also contrast the dark nature of the school. In addition, Ross also uses archival footage and imagery to set his story in the 60’s period, with footage ranging from the Apollo 11 mission to MLK Jr.’s speeches. Contributing to the optimistic nature of the era and Elwood’s desire for change, these embody the growing pressure for societal change, and give hope to this otherwise downbeat, yet necessary story.
Ethan Herisse gives a timid yet Oscar-worthy performance as Elwood, embodying the swinging mindset of an optimistic teen who’s determined to find his way in the world yet gets caught in an unfortunate situation. Brandon Wilson’s performance as Turner is more rugged and tempered, but just as effective in capturing the frustrated and restrictive nature imposed onto students at Nickel Academy and African Americans in general during the era.
Overall, Nickel Boys is a complexly revolutionary film displaying struggle and unbridled resilience. It employs refined storytelling and unique cinematography to tell a deeply powerful and relevant story about an era that will not be forgotten any time soon.
8/10 🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿🍿
Where to Watch: In Theaters (Limited)
