As a movie critic who has spent decades immersed in the rich tapestry of cinematic storytelling, I find myself consistently drawn to films that challenge the status quo and push boundaries. RaMell Ross’ “Nickel Boys” is one such film, a bold and unapologetic exploration of a dark chapter in American history that demands our attention.
In 2024, not many directors have dared to make decisions as daring as RaMell Ross did with his film “Nickel Boys”. This movie is based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Nickel Boys” from 2019 and draws inspiration from the infamous Dozier School for Boys. The subject matter was already heavy, but Ross chooses to shoot the entire film using a first-person perspective and a boxed 4:3 aspect ratio, which is more than just a novelty yet presents its own set of difficulties.
The narrative, penned by Ross and Joslyn Barnes, unfolds around an unexpected bond formed amidst harrowing situations. It’s set in 1962, where the protagonist Elwood (Ethan Herisse), a brilliant and ambitious African-American boy, is brought up by his caring grandmother Hattie (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor) amidst the Jim Crow era in Tallahassee, Florida. Ross subtly guides us through Elwood’s early life, offering glimpses of the world as seen through the young boy’s perspective. Rarely do we catch a direct view of Elwood’s face, instead catching reflections of him in windows or snapshots from a photo booth.
In a tight-knit circle of advocates for Elwood is his instructor, Mr. Hill (Jimmie Fails), who inspires his 16-year-old pupil to submit an application to Melvin Griggs Technical School. Elwood gets accepted and looks forward to furthering his learning journey. On a country road towards Melvin Griggs, Elwood thumbs a ride from a flamboyant yet affable man in a gleaming Impala. However, it is later revealed that the car was stolen, and local law enforcement detain the man and wrongly accuse Elwood of being an accessory to the crime.
Without regard for fair treatment, Elwood is transferred to Nickel Academy, a harshly segregated institution disguised as a school for boys. Upon arrival, he encounters the academy’s oppressive system of forced labor and brutal mistreatment. The strict administrator, Mr. Spencer (Hamish Linklater), maintains control through a set of rules known as “The Four Levels of Behavior”. Reach the top level, and you’re considered to have graduated. However, Elwood soon discovers that most students either leave when they grow up or pass away.
However, it’s at Nickel where Elwood encounters a person who will significantly alter his existence. A fellow learner named Turner (Brandon Wilson) befriends Elwood and they rapidly develop a close bond. From this point forward, the narrative shifts to show events through Turner’s eyes, while Ross continues to narrate in first-person. The remainder of the movie follows their blossoming friendship, with Ross frequently switching between their perspectives.
You might anticipate that the subjects tackled in this work are deeply profound and can be emotionally challenging. Simultaneously, it’s frequently quite impactful. Ross provides an entrancing contemplation on Black life, skillfully revealing beauty amidst harsh realities. However, while the cinematography presents a stunning portrayal of Elwood’s perspective on the world, the aesthetic appeal gradually fades as the harshness of reality becomes more prevalent in his existence.
The narrative style of “Nickel Boys” is undeniably engaging, and Ross effectively presents a fresh perspective on this type of story. However, towards the end, the narrative seems to falter slightly, with some inconsistencies in the plot development. The story’s conclusion attempts to tie up loose ends, but it leaves certain aspects unclear or confusing. Odd visual elements are introduced that create more confusion than clarity. Additionally, the use of flash-forwards adds complexity to the ending, making it more intricate and potentially difficult to follow than necessary.
Beyond those points, RaMell Ross should be commended for approaching familiar themes in a fresh and unique manner. The acting is impressive across the board, with Ellis-Taylor delivering an exceptional performance. The emotions portrayed by these actors create the foundation of this impactful and thought-provoking drama that maintains your attention despite minor flaws in the third act.
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2024-12-03 18:56