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Some of the strongest friendships often grow out of some of the most difficult situations—just when we need them the most. And in Nickel Boys, a life-changing friendship helps two boys break away from some of the pain and fear of their life at an institution.
Nickel Boys follows two teenage boys as they try to survive life at a reform school where racism and abuse are just a part of everyday life. Elwood (Ethan Herisse) had a promising future until he was wrongfully convicted of a crime and sent to Nickel Academy. There, he meets Turner (Brandon Wilson)—and the two become inseparable. As Elwood decries their treatment, always believing that his grandmother’s lawyer will be able to get him released, Turner just tries to keep his head down, hoping that he’ll eventually age out of the system.
Together, upbeat, optimistic Elwood and cynical Turner find ways to work around the system—to get assigned together to the easiest work days and break away from the school’s tight restrictions. Though they have such different personalities, they complement each other well. It’s often so painful to witness the things that these boys are forced to endure, yet, despite the constant threat around them—of the tortures of the White House or the Hot Box…or worse—their friendship brings a little bit of joy and hope to their nightmarish circumstances.
What makes the film really stand out, though, is its perspective. The film was shot mostly through the perspective of the two characters. We see what they see, from the perspective in which they see it. That means that sometimes we see the face of another character—or sometimes we see the sky or someone’s feet. It’s a completely different way to watch a film—one that definitely takes some getting used to. It’s shaky (which can add an extra challenge for those of us who suffer from motion sickness), but it’s so real—more than just another awkward filmmaking gimmick. And while it doesn’t always work perfectly, it generally adds to the intensity of the film by giving viewers a connection to the characters that we don’t usually have.
Nickel Boys can be a difficult film to watch for multiple reasons. The boys’ experiences at the academy—and the torment that they’re forced to endure—make for a gut-wrenching experience. And the film’s point of view—while it can be a challenge—makes it even more personal. In the end, it’s the kind of film that will leave you speechless.
You can experience this new perspective on friendship when Nickel Boys expands to theaters nationwide on January 17, 2025.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
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