If Beale Street Could Talk

If Beale Street Could Talk is a 2018 drama film that revolves around the love story of two young African American lovers, Tish (KiKi Layne) and Fonny (Stephan James), who are planning to start a happy family together in New York City in the early 1970s. However, their dreams are shattered when Fonny is falsely accused of raping a Puerto Rican woman and is sent to jail. Tish, who is pregnant with Fonny's child, must navigate through a racist and unjust criminal justice system to prove her lover's innocence and bring him back home.

The film is based on James Baldwin's novel of the same name, which is one of the most celebrated and influential works of African American literature. The screenplay is written and directed by Barry Jenkins, who won an Academy Award for his film Moonlight in 2016. Jenkins manages to capture the poignant and lyrical aspects of Baldwin's prose and breathe life into the characters that feel authentic and relatable.

The film is a poignant and heartbreaking portrayal of the many obstacles that African Americans faced in 1970s America, including racism, police brutality, and poverty. The story is not just about the love between Tish and Fonny, but also about the love and support of their families, who must come together to fight for justice and freedom. Regina King, who won an Academy Award for her performance in the film, plays Tish's mother, Sharon, a strong and compassionate woman who fights tirelessly to help her daughter and save her son-in-law from an unjust fate.

The cinematography, done by James Laxton, is stunningly beautiful, capturing the vibrant colors, textures, and emotions of the characters and the city. The camera moves in a fluid and intimate way, creating a sense of closeness between the audience and the characters, while also providing a wider perspective of the city and its people.

The music is also a crucial part of the film, with a hauntingly beautiful score by Nicholas Britell and several classic soul and jazz tracks that add depth and meaning to the story. The music serves as a powerful tool to convey the emotions and struggles of the characters, especially in the scenes that focus on their relationships and dreams.

One of the key themes of the film is the power of love, both romantic love and the love between family and friends. Tish and Fonny's love is pure and enduring, despite the many setbacks and obstacles they face. The film also shows the deep love and sacrifice of their families, who are willing to risk everything to save their loved ones.

In conclusion, If Beale Street Could Talk is a powerful and moving film that captures the essence of James Baldwin's novel and brings it to life on the big screen. The story is not just about the injustice faced by African Americans, but also about their resilience, strength, and love. The performances, cinematography, music, and direction are all masterful, making this film a must-see for anyone who wants to understand the complexities and beauty of the African American experience.