‘Love, Brooklyn’ Review: André Holland, Nicole Beharie and DeWanda Wise Carry a Simmering Romantic Drama

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Title “Love, Brooklyn” highlights an affectionate tribute to the people and locales of a New York borough sharing the same name. This film also serves as a platform for its captivating main actors, Andre Holland, Nicole Beharie, and DeWanda Wise, who portray ambitious creative New Yorkers entangled in a complex love triangle. In the Sundance US dramatic competition, debut directors Rachael Abigail Holder and screenwriter Paul Zimmerman craft a subtle, steamy romantic journey that brims with personal intensity while also offering a heartfelt examination of the cherished, ever-changing neighborhood.

Casey (Beharie) and Roger (Holland) were once in a romantic relationship but have since become close friends, or so it seems. However, there may be unresolved feelings between them as they value their time together dearly. Meanwhile, Roger finds himself in a more serious situation with Nicole (Wise), a grieving widow, after her young daughter Ally (Cadence Reese) develops an admiration for him that borders on viewing him as a father figure. These characters are also depicted as professionals who can only lead their lives in the vibrant neighborhood of Brooklyn. Roger is tasked with writing an extensive piece exploring the growth and transformation of this area, particularly for its Black community, while Casey struggles with her art gallery being consumed by gentrification.

Zimmerman’s script explores the intimate dynamics between characters as well as the broader shifts in their economic and social environment. It offers insightful commentary on contemporary dating for individuals in their 30s and 40s, delving into questions like when to initiate or conclude a relationship, and how to navigate dating while raising a child. Holder skillfully portrays the actors with tender care, subtly capturing fleeting moments of emotion as they confront these complex issues.

Primarily, the movie captures the unique significance of Brooklyn for its residents, mirroring a distinct culture and pace of living. The filmmakers are well-acquainted with the locals’ habits, speech patterns, and occupations. They even humorously highlight the distinctions between its inhabitants and those from Manhattan and its counterpart, Los Angeles – a contrast between laid-back and easygoing versus somewhat stiff and pretentious. Local artists adorn the screen with visually striking works, and local musicians contribute songs to the soundtrack, lending authenticity to this representation.

Love, Brooklyn” showcases its characters in a series of impactful moments, mirroring a typical day in a city familiar to many. It’s about making arrangements with individuals you admire, only to unexpectedly encounter those you’d rather avoid. It’s about the minor mishaps and remorse caused by ill-timed words. It’s about how alcohol can unearth feelings and truths that were meant to stay hidden. Emotions are stirred, bonds are reevaluated, and the day concludes with both heartfelt realizations and somber regrets.

In this movie, Holland and Beharie share a noticeable connection that feels genuine and engaging. Their friendly banter is filled with playfulness, suggesting there might be unresolved feelings between them. The actors seem so at ease together that viewers find themselves hoping their on-screen relationship develops, even though the script indicates they aren’t meant for each other. It’s fascinating to see Holland reprise his romantic leading man role, a talent he last displayed in “Moonlight” and should showcase more often. As the enigmatic and self-assured Casey, Beharie gets another chance to display her captivating screen presence, similar to her last Sundance hit from 2020, “Miss Juneteenth.” Wise delivers a convincing portrayal of a loving mother and seductive partner while subtly showing Nicole’s internal struggles. All three actors deliver outstanding performances, making the love triangle feel authentic and compelling.

In my opinion, when this movie zeroes in on its primary trio, it truly takes flight. Regrettably, the other characters, intended to depict the vibrant mosaic of Brooklyn, could’ve been more fully fleshed out. The exception is Cassandra Freeman’s character, the self-absorbed art collector who constantly boasts about herself, providing some delightful satirical moments. However, I found myself wishing for more crowd scenes, whether in parks, streets, or parties, as they seemed oddly underpopulated. This could be due to budget constraints, but it feels incongruous with the portrayal of a bustling urban setting that Brooklyn is known for.

The title “Love, Brooklyn” appears hesitant in addressing the impact of gentrification on long-time residents, even though various characters express diverse viewpoints throughout the film. Regrettably, the movie fails to provide clear conclusions on this topic, leaving viewers with a sense of ambiguity that was intended to create a moving tribute to Brooklyn, its inhabitants, and what makes it so enduring. Instead, the uncertainty in the film’s message somewhat undermines the intended powerful impact it was aiming for.

There’s no question that Holder and Zimmerman deeply love Brooklyn and know it like the back of their hands. It’s fortunate for them to have discovered three actors who can evoke such raw emotion effortlessly, thus making the romantic tale feel incredibly real. Therefore, “Love, Brooklyn” is a must-see production, deserving to be appreciated beyond Utah’s scenic landscapes.

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2025-02-05 06:16