Beats (2019)

Movie Name/Year: Beats (2019)

Genre: Drama

Length: 109 Minutes

Rating:  TV-MA

Production/Distribution: 51 Minds Entertainment, Global Road Entertainment, Netflix

Director: Chris Robinson

Writer: Miles Orion Feldsott

Actors: Anthony Anderson, Uzo Aduba, Emayatzy Corinealdi, Khalil Everage, Dreezy, Dave East, Paul Walter Hauser, Ariana Burks, Ashley Jackson, Megan Sousa

Blurb from IMDb: A young talented guy who suffered from the loss of his sister meets a disoriented manager who is trying to get back on track in his musical career.

I am generally pretty excited to find a movie that focuses on music in some way. This film was no exception. While I’m not as familiar with the hip-hop genre as I am with others, I still enjoy a chance to get a peek behind the proverbial curtain.

Beats isn’t one of those fluffy rags-to-riches discovery stories. It’s gritty and highlights the struggle of growing up on the ‘mean streets.’ Powerful and poignant are two words that best describe the story that unfolds. Not only is it a coming-of-age tale with a liberal sprinkling of redemption, but this movie also shines a light on the healing power of music.

The cast for this movie really knocked it out of the park. Anthony Anderson (Law & Order, Barbershop: The Next Cut, Ferdinand) and Khalil Everage (Karma (Chicago), Cobra Kai, The Chi) had a captivating dynamic. I was actually shocked to learn that this was Everage’s first film. He has a bright future ahead of him if he continues to deliver this caliber of performance, or better.

This film also explores another theme that is dear to my heart – sometimes it just takes one person believing in you to find a way to believe in yourself. 

I really enjoyed this movie. It was a rollercoaster of feels, but the ride was well worth it. 

Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score – 100%

Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score – 66%

Metascore – none

Metacritic User Score – none

IMDB Score – 6.4/10

CinemaScore – none

Trust the Dice: Cat’s Rating – 4/5

 

Movie Trailer: