The Tested

The Tested is a 2010 drama film that explores the lives of three individuals whose paths intersect in a tragic and unexpected way. The movie is directed by Russell Costanzo and stars Aunjanue Ellis, Armando Riesco, and Michael Morris Jr.

The story is set in Brooklyn, New York, and follows the lives of three characters who are struggling to survive in their respective situations. The first character is the mother of a teenager who was shot dead by a local drug dealer in a case of mistaken identity. She is grief-stricken and consumed by the guilt of not being able to protect her son. The second character is the drug dealer who shot the teenager. He is torn between his loyalty to his boss and his guilt over killing an innocent boy. The third character is a young African-American man who is struggling to find a job and get his life back on track after serving time in prison.

The movie unfolds through a series of flashbacks, and we see the events that lead up to the shooting and the aftermath. The mother, played by Aunjanue Ellis, is trying to hold on to her sanity while dealing with the loss of her son. She becomes increasingly paranoid and starts to see her son's ghost everywhere, even in her dreams. The drug dealer, played by Armando Riesco, is trying to justify his actions and convince himself that he did the right thing. He is also dealing with pressure from his boss, who wants him to keep his mouth shut and take the fall for the shooting. The young man, played by Michael Morris Jr., is trying to stay out of trouble and make a new life for himself. He is haunted by the guilt of his past mistakes and the fear of returning to prison.

The Tested is a powerful and poignant film that deals with themes of grief, guilt, redemption, and the harsh realities of life in the inner city. The performances by the three leads are exceptional, and they bring a rawness and authenticity to their roles that make the characters feel real and relatable. The movie is also a commentary on the social and economic issues that plague communities like the one depicted in the film. The lack of opportunities, the prevalence of drugs and violence, and the systemic racism that pervades the justice system are all explored through the story of these three characters.

One of the strengths of the film is its use of non-linear storytelling. The flashbacks and non-sequential scenes create a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty that keep the audience engaged and guessing. The movie also uses music to great effect, with a haunting and evocative score that adds to the emotional resonance of the scenes.

Overall, The Tested is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of human nature and the harsh realities of life in the inner city. The performances are exceptional, the story is engaging, and the themes are relevant and important. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.