It’s a big moment for Black cinema this weekend in the UK, as Chris rock’s Top Five and the critically acclaimed Girlhood open in cinemas around the UK today.
Girlhood
*****
This new film has been described as “one of the best coming-of-age movies in years” and is an exciting, fresh look at a young black girl’s journey to seek empowerment and control over her own identity and future, and focuses on the bonds that exist within young female relationships.
Girlhood is a coming of age tale, following a group of young black women as they navigate their way to their own sense of self, and their true path, taking wrong turns and making mistakes along the way. Above all else it is about the sisterhood of being a girl, and a bond that helps you brave the many external pressures and influences, when growing up. Along with a standout performance from the fresh new talent, Karidja Toure, GIRLHOOD features a fantastic soundtrack which includes Rhianna’s ‘Diamonds’ which the girls sing along to in a moving and iconic scene, that will have the song stuck in your head for weeks. Girlhood is set in Paris, making it’s all black lead cast even more out of the ordinary, and significant. The themes though are universal, and we’re so pleased to have Girlhood on the big screen.
Check out the trailer, above.
Top Five
****
Written and produced by Chris Rock, Top Five is of course hilariously witty! The film follows Andre Allen, actor, recovering alcoholic and famous funny guy played by Chris Rock on a tell-all interview. In the process of trying to revamp his career, going for more serious roles and settling down with a pending marriage to reality star Erica Long (Gabrielle Union). Fans and critics are suspicious at best of Allen’s attempted transition, and await the return of the funny man they love. A playful commentary on the vacuity of reality star life, fame and the Hollywood lifestyle, this is the perfect summer fun film!
The film was released in the US in December, and Pride are thrilled it’s finally here, it’s an all star cast of familiar and faces; Kevin Hart stars as Andre’s Manager, Rosario Dawson takes a leading role as a reporter following Andre for a ‘day in the life’ interview as his latest film opens at Box offices. Cedric The Entertainer, Sherri Sheppard and even star, while Whoopi Goldberg, Taraji P. Henson, DMX, Adam Sandler and many others make cameos.
Let’s give these films the support they deserve as great works of entertainment, but also as great images of people of colour taking centre stage. Let’s encourage more diversity in UK cinema releases by enjoying two great films this weekend!
