Based on the 1974 novel by James Baldwin, this new drama is written and produced by Barry Jenkins. Mr. Jenkins also wrote the screenplay which, unfortunately is as relevant today as it was in 1974. Its themes of racism and injustice continue to plague America even now.
What rises above this sad tale is the pure love of it's protagonists, Tish and Fonny. Under Mr. Jenkins's direction, his lead actors, Kiki Layne as Tish and Stephan James as Fonny are remarkable in the love they show for each, other despite finding themselves in horrific circumstances. With a wonderful jazz score underlying the story, Mr. Jenkins wraps his camera around his actors and draws such an honesty and purity out of their performance that can only describe the film as an aural and visual poem.
The film tells its story leisurely but the characters are so rich that the pace only gives us more time to appreciate them. Beyond the two leads, the film also co-stars Regina King as Tish's mother, Coleman Domingo as her father, and Teyonah Parris as her sister. Dave Franco, Finn Wittrock, Diego Luna, Emily Rios and Brian Tyree Henry also have small but key roles. It is a wonderful cast that brings real life to these characters. Only Mr. Wittrock's character seems wasted and only exists to make a point.
Mr. Jenkins made his mark with "Moonlight". "Beale Street" only solidifies his importance as a new voice in film.
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