Written & Directed By: Aleshea Harris
Cinematography: Alexander Dynan
Editor: Jay Rabinowitz
Cast: Kara Young, Mallori Johnson, Vivica A. Fox, Erika Alexander, Sterling K. Brown, Mykelti Williamson, Janelle Monae, Josiah Cross
Two sisters embark on an epic quest for revenge; confronting a charged family history that will push them to extraordinary lengths.
This is a revenge tale that we rarely ever see. Where it’s two African American women seeking revenge against all their oppressors all those who have wronged them on their path to their ultimate enemy.
This is truly an African American film as there are no Caucasian or other race characters. So the film stays within the community and culture.
The film exposes monsters even those who are victims can be. As they were made that way eventually.
The film has stylistic flourishes once in awhile that enchant and remind you of what the film could have been. As most of the time before the film gets lost or ahead of itself. It reminds you of the reality the characters are in. One of them expert fighters or killers. Just determined to do whatever it takes.
Which is why the actions scenes might not be awesome inspiring like one of it’s obvious influences KILL BILL, but it manages to work by it’s own rules in it’s own worlds
As mixed in within is a kind of road trip film where in their journey they meet quite a few supporting characters to help them find their father. Each one is so full of life and played by a scene stealing actor. (Erika Alexander, Vivica A. Fox, Mykelti Williamson) That you wish there was more of them in the film. Though you realize they are just big pieces in this puzzle.
Kara Young steals the film as one of the most strong willed characters of the film. She practically walks away with it as one of the leads. You want to see more of her or for there to be sequels just to see her character. She is the more vicious and angry compared to her sister played by Mallori Johnson who is more scarred, practical and forgiving.
The film isn’t quite like the trailers made it look like an updated blaxplotiation film full of action with some spiritualism and southern charm. Though appreciate it for being it’s own creation that has more depth then expected. As the film isn’t paced like an action film or thriller and takes it’s time letting us get to know our protagonists. Not to surprised this started out as a play. Whose writer makes their directorial debut here Aleshea Harris
It’s an original and securely worth seeing and being exposed to this cinematic worlds
The only disappoint is found in self. As one was hyped for this film And expected it to be crazier and wilder then it ultimately becomes, but still creative and memorable in it’s own right
The final act of the film is the most cruel, yet also the most exciting. That feels a little biblical. Even once we meet the ultimate villain played by Sterling K. Brown. He nor the film disappoints.
Though it’s definitely worth seeing
Grade: B
