SEE YOU YESTERDAY (2019)

Directed By: Stefon Bristol 
Written By: Stefon Bristol & Fredrica Bailey 
Cinematography: Felipe Vara De Rey 
Editor: Jennifer Lee 


Cast: Eden Duncan-Smith, Dante Crichlow, Astro, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Jonathan Nieves, Wavvy Jones 

After her brother is killed in a miscarriage of justice, aspiring inventor Claudette 'CJ' Walker uses her scientific mind to create two time machines, one for her, and the other for her friend Sebastian. As they use the machines to try and alter the day CJ's brother died, they come to learn the ultimatum of time travel: All Actions Have Consequences.

This is a coming of age science fiction tale. That feels honest and has a lot of heart.

At first thought one can see this film like a young adult book can’t necessarily compare it to a more dramatic adult novel. As it might seem to concern, serve and adhere to a certain audience and offers more to them then to a general audience, but as this film goes along it reveals itself to be something different and more enriched then we usually get with this type of film.

The film stays real to the characters and situations plus offers a nod to other time travel movies. One in Particular that can be seems as an inspiration. While offering It’s own modern take on a time travel story Involving teens and trying to teach important lessons. This one deals more with social justice and issues.

The film is resourceful as it offers different subjects and approaches them that are more modern as well as issues in the minority community that play in the background and as a cause and effect.

The film is at times touching, uplifting and inspiring independent film that is better then It’s premise and surroundings. I am familiar of the neighborhood and where it takes place, So close to where I grew up and still live. So It’s locations and cultures that feels overwhelmingly familiar.

Luckily the film isn’t as repetitive as the story seems set up to be and offers more emotional moments. The film amazes what can be done with so little bit great talent, ideas and imagination.

The film brings so many emotions to the forefront you can’t help but get swept up in them. Especially in the social injustice angle. Reminding us that we are all affected by the same things but unfortunately in the world certain aces have to deal more with tragedy, injustice and stereotypes. As the characters are reliving through experiences in the experiment.

The film offers positive reinforcement and inspiration not only representation in a rare way that usually isn’t shown or credited. Hopefully this will be a film to inspire others in science, filmmaking and storytelling. Showcasing people of color and females in roles not usually offered or shown on screen.

A promising debut feature for director/co-screenwriter Stefon Bristol based on his short film of the same name. 

It feel imaginative and quite magical throughout. Bathed in concern and showcasing inventiveness throughout. Though never quite feels too major.

It says a lot with what seems like so little. As it allows for subtlety, but also shows that every little element is there for a reason. Nothing is wasted and it all comes back around. A truly stunning debut that manages to be personal, universal and make a statement. It feels honest and well rounded. It shows a lot of thought and care went into this film.

The film is ultimately heavy with it’s heart and emotions. Not an exactly satisfying ending. As it leaves tot wanting more. It doesn’t offer any easy answers.


Grade: B+