An old family photograph sparks a complicated romance in Stella Meghie’s romantic drama starring Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield.
There’s nothing better than a good love story. From Pride and Prejudice, Love Jones, and Brown Sugar on-screen romances keep audiences captivated for hours on end. From the slightest graze or the initial eye contact, like Quincy gave Monica in Love & Basketball during the dance. A look can convey so many things without ever uttering one word. Lakeith Stanfield delivers the look when he first locks eyes with Issa Rae. In The Photograph, written and directed by Stella Meghie (The Weekend, Jean of the Joneses) comes a sweeping love story about forgiveness and finding the courage to seek the truth, no matter where it may lead you. Just in time for Valentine’s Day weekend The Photograph hits theaters nationwide.
When famed photographer Christina Eames (Chanté Adams Netflix’s Roxanne Roxanne) unexpectedly dies, she leaves her estranged daughter Mae hurt, angry and full of questions. When a photograph tucked away in a safe-deposit box is found, Mae finds herself on a journey delving into her mother’s early life and ignites a powerful, chance romance.
Meet Mike and Mae. Michael Block Lakeith Stanfield (FX’s Atlanta and Sorry to Bother You) is a New York based rising star journalist for the online publication The Republic, who may or may not have commitment issues. Mae Morton Issa Rae (HBO’s Insecure and Little) an art curator at the Queens Museum, is dealing with the unforeseen death of her mother. (Let’s give her wardrobe a standing ovation because Mae was flyy) The film follows two interwoven love stories that eventually become one. The talented duo is a perfect blend of sexy and black nerds unite vibe. Both caught up in the daily grind while trying to navigate life and love.
This film had all the potential to be great but it fell short in story and character development. The cinematography and costuming was exceptional. Black skin on big screens do something to me.The essence of Louisiana and New York were captured beautifully. ‘The Photograph’ is a decent film, however If you are looking for the classic feel of the aforementioned films, this ain’t it! The original soundtrack by Jazz pianist/record producer and composer Robert Glasper is a win. The addition to the beautifully arranged score is one that added to the beauty of the movie.
Even with the talents of the actors the competing story lines didn’t connect well. At times Rae just seemed dry and had a flat affect. There was the awkwardness of watching Rae trying to entice Stanfield during the storm which made me scream internally “If you don’t jump on that lap and kiss him.” Stanfield on the other hand seemed more at ease and fluid with his abilities. His non-verbal presence still lent to his role having more dimension to me. I take it back to the eyes. It’s something about his gaze.
Overall, the movie is a decent watch, it didn’t go as deep as I’d hoped, and it didn’t cause me to think or reflect. I was left with the ending and a feeling of that’s it.
If you had a chance to view the film please drop a comment and let me know your thoughts.
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