About the film (courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios):
Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning novel by Colson Whitehead, the drama chronicles the powerful friendship between two young Black teenagers navigating the harrowing trials of reform school together in Florida.
RaMell Ross’s Nickel Boys is a haunting and unforgettable film that transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Adapted from Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the film delves into the horrors of the Jim Crow South through the eyes of two young Black boys unjustly sentenced to the Nickel Academy, a brutal reform school in Florida.
Ross, known for his acclaimed documentary work, brings a unique perspective to this narrative. Nickel Boys is a masterful blend of fiction and documentary techniques, seamlessly weaving together archival footage, evocative imagery, and powerful performances to create a visceral and immersive experience.
The film centers on Elwood Curtis (Ethan Herisse), an idealistic young man who finds his life upended after a wrongful arrest. Sent to Nickel Academy, he befriends Turner (Brandon Wilson), a more cynical and hardened boy who has learned to navigate the institution’s corrupt system. The two boys form a bond of friendship and resilience amidst the unspeakable cruelty and violence they witness.
What sets Nickel Boys apart is its refusal to shy away from the harsh realities of racial injustice and systemic abuse. Ross’s camera captures the dehumanizing conditions of the Nickel Academy with unflinching honesty, forcing viewers to confront the brutal legacy of racism in America. Yet, amidst the darkness, the film also finds moments of hope and humanity, highlighting the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
The performances in Nickel Boys are nothing short of extraordinary. Ethan Herisse delivers a heartbreaking portrayal of Elwood, capturing his innocence, idealism, and gradual disillusionment. Brandon Wilson is equally impressive as Turner, conveying his character’s cynicism and world-weariness with a quiet intensity. The supporting cast, including Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Elwood’s grandmother, adds further depth and emotional resonance to the film.
Ross’s direction is masterful. He employs a non-linear narrative structure that skillfully interweaves past and present, creating a sense of timelessness and highlighting the enduring impact of trauma. His use of close-ups and long takes creates an intimate and immersive experience, drawing viewers into the characters’ emotional journeys.
Nickel Boys is not an easy film to watch, but it is an essential one. It is a powerful and timely reminder of the injustices of the past and the ongoing struggle for equality. Ross’s film is a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the darkest corners of history and inspire hope for a better future.
Nickel Boys is in theaters Friday, December 13th. Just remember to bring your somber shoes because you’re going to tread through some emotional waters. Anger and sadness are but a couple of the emotions you’ll leave the theater with.
