Seamlessly weaved between two time periods, the 1980’s and today, The Photograph captures the beauty and heartbreak of love lost and found.
Lakeith Stanfield, known from the blockbuster and Academy award-winning film Get Out and FX’s hit TV series Atlanta, stars as Michael Block, a rising journalist for a New York newspaper who is working on a story of a recently deceased photographer — Christina Eames. Issa Rae (HBO’s Insecure), plays Mae Morton, a museum curator who spends the duration of the film processing the death and life of her mother (Eames) through handwritten letters and first-hand accounts. The two young professionals meet and romance quickly ensues.
Two photographs, one of Eames and another of her former lover, Isaac, played by Y’lan Noel (HBO’s Insecure), connect both Mae and Michael to Louisiana where love was abruptly abandoned.
The film also explores several key issues such as unresolved love affairs, dark truths and the tumultuous relationships between Black mothers and their daughters.
The casting is on point!
Similar to his supporting role in Get Out, comedian Lil Rel Howery oftentimes lightens the somberness of the film. His family (wife and two daughters) are refreshing and entertaining to watch.
Chante Adams (Netflix’s Roxanne Roxanne) and Y’lan Noel’s on-screen vibe can be felt as well. Hollywood veteran, Courtney B. Vance (The Preacher’s Wife) gave the story some wisdom and insight in his brief appearances.
The Photograph is a modern romantic drama with a retro twist that restores the faith in the strength and tenacity of ‘Black Love’. A positive film with this much talented melanin is worth a trip to the theatre.
Film Review by Broderick and Arri Henry