Uncorked

Uncorked is a 2020 movie that tells the story of a young man named Elijah, who dreams of becoming a master sommelier. Directed by Prentice Penny, the film stars Courtney B. Vance as Elijah's father, Louis, and newcomer Mamoudou Athie as Elijah. Other actors featured in the film include Lashun Pollard, Michael Mobley, and Matthew Glave.

The movie begins with Elijah working at his father's barbecue restaurant in Memphis. Louis has high expectations for his son, hoping that he will take over the family business one day. However, Elijah is more interested in wine than barbecue. He secretly starts studying for the sommelier exam and dreams of opening his own wine shop someday.

Elijah's passion for wine is not well-received by his father, who thinks it's a frivolous pursuit. Louis is more traditional and believes that Elijah should follow in his footsteps and take over the restaurant. Elijah's mother, played by Pollard, is caught in the middle of the conflict between her husband and son. She supports Elijah's dreams but also understands Louis' desire to keep the family business alive.

As the story progresses, Elijah meets a girl named Tanya (played by Sasha Compere) and they start dating. Tanya encourages Elijah to pursue his dreams and convinces him to apply to a prestigious wine school in France. This decision puts Elijah in direct conflict with his father, who disapproves of his son leaving the family business to chase his dreams.

The movie is a heartwarming tale of family, dreams, and perseverance. It touches on themes such as tradition, sacrifice, and the sacrifices that individuals make to pursue their passions. The film is also a unique look into the world of wine and sommeliers, shedding light on an industry that is typically shrouded in mystery.

In addition to the stellar performances by Vance and Athie, Uncorked features a fantastic supporting cast. Lashun Pollard shines as Elijah's conflicted mother, torn between her husband's expectations and her son's dreams. Sasha Compere is also excellent as Tanya, bringing a breath of fresh air into the story and providing a foil for Elijah's struggles.

Overall, Uncorked is a touching and relatable movie that will resonate with anyone who has ever had to choose between their family's expectations and their own dreams. It is a beautiful and inspiring story of perseverance, passion, and the power of chasing your dreams. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or not, Uncorked is a movie that is sure to leave a lasting impression.