Oscar-winning director Steven Soderbergh puts on his producer's cap for the Black love story "Love, Brooklyn." Rachael Abigail Holder makes her directorial debut with the film from a screenplay by Paul Zimmerman. Rodger (André Holland), Nicole (DeWanda Wise), and Casey (Nicole Beharie) are three longtime Brooklynites navigating careers, love, loss, and friendship amidst the rapidly changing landscape of their beloved city.
The film opens with Rodger, an easygoing young man, cycling through sunlit streets, a gentle breeze tousling his hair. He soon meets up with Casey, his ex-girlfriend, who exudes an artistic flair with her eclectic style and thoughtful demeanor. Their friendly outing ends on a low note for Rodger, who was hoping for a nightcap.
However, fate intervenes when his current friend with benefits, Nicole, a single mother, reaches out to him for a late-night session, and he's more than happy to oblige. Rodger also finds time to chop it up with his best friend, the married Alan (Roy Wood Jr.), who often has fantasies about cheating on his wife but will never actually do the deed.
The crux of "Love, Brooklyn" is Rodger going back and forth between his emotions for Nicole, who represents his future, and Casey, who represents his future. Holland uses his natural charm to make Rodger a relatable character. One of the standout aspects of the script is the impressive layering of his arc. He owes his editor a story about the rejuvenation of Brooklyn post-COVID, yet he adamantly refuses to finish it. Holland is one of the best actors working today, and it's always great to see him play a lead role.
The ladies in the film are extraordinary. DeWanda Wise gives a no-frills approach to her character. She sees what he can become but is unafraid to call him on his BS. The elegant Nicole Beharie, who can merely light up her room with a smile, is excellent as a woman who doesn't know what she wants from life. Roy Woods provides the occasional punch line in a small but memorable role. Wood's limited screen had me yearning for a spin-off film focused on his character.
Viewers going into "Love, Brooklyn" should know that the film has a very avant-garde feel, from the cinematography to the pacing. While the film features melanin-lead leads, this is a universal story anyone can relate to.
"Love, Brooklyn" is Rachael Abigail Holder's impressive debut. It features heartfelt performances from its cast and an organic plot.
Final Grade: B+
"Love, Brooklyn" is currently seeking distribution.
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