About the film (courtesy of Universal Pictures):
While on a forgettable first date together in Ohio, a black man (Get Out’s Daniel Kaluuya) and a black woman (Jodie Turner-Smith, in her first starring feature-film role), are pulled over for a minor traffic infraction. The situation escalates, with sudden and tragic results, when the man kills the police officer in self-defense. Terrified and in fear for their lives, the man, a retail employee, and the woman, a criminal defense lawyer, are forced to go on the run. But the incident is captured on video and goes viral, and the couple unwittingly become a symbol of trauma, terror, grief and pain for people across the country. As they drive, these two unlikely fugitives will discover themselves and each other in the most dire and desperate of circumstances, and will forge a deep and powerful love that will reveal their shared humanity and shape the rest of their lives.
Melina Matsoukas has mostly made her mark in the entertainment industry for bringing stylish music videos to the forefront featuring the likes of Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga and other prominent artists. Upon directing video shorts and several television episodes, she’s now ready to challenge herself with something a bit more substantial. Lena Waithe’s story of a Bonnie & Clyde or Thelma & Louise type duo that deals with many modern day issues in this country, is the perfect vehicle to announce Matsoukas’ arrival onto the scene. Queen & Slim is a film that will force many to take notice.
Queen & Slim is risky business for Universal Pictures for several reasons. In today’s climate, the public can read into these types of films with their own agendas based on what’s currently in the news. There are subjects in this offering that can be uncomfortable to talk or even think about. But it is in that discomfort that allows emotion to hook viewers to the poignant plot. Additionally, going with a relatively new feature film director in Melina Matsoukas and an even greener lead actress, Jodie Turner-Smith, allows for much uncertainty as to what the studio can expect.
Much to the delight of everyone involved, Queen & Slim starts off with demanding our full focus and attention and it doesn’t let go for the movie’s entirety. Lena Waithe provides a wonderfully deep and complex composition of which to draw from. A diverse and equally talented team of actors assist in providing heartfelt performances throughout. Jodie Turner-Smith acts well beyond her years of experience with gripping display of pride, fear and resilience. Her partner-in-crime, so to speak, is Daniel Kaluuya who, unsurprisingly, gives his all on screen and isn’t afraid to show his vulnerable side. Bokeem Woodbine, as Uncle Earl, is a true delight every minute that he’s seen. Benito Martinez, Flea and Chloë Sevigny are just some of the other supporting actors that helped make this an enjoyable experience.
Weighing in at 132 minutes, the pacing of Queen & Slim is pretty steady. There’s enough going on to keep audiences engaged and there’s a good amount of suspense, drama and even humor to assist in keeping moods balanced. There are clear and obvious messages throughout but it’s done in a way as to not make this feel as if it’s a “statement film.”
This one is obviously meant for a more mature audience, as it’s rated R and for good reason, but I feel that it will appeal to a broad spectrum of individuals. The story is gripping, the acting is solid and the settings are beautifully filmed. Queen & Slim is a very wise choice if you’re looking for something to see over the Thanksgiving break. Just be sure to remember to breathe throughout. See it in theaters now.
