By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 4.25 cats
Director: Jim McKay
Starring: Anna Simpson | KerryWashington | Melissa Martinez
Country: united_states
Year: 2001
Running time: 95
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0234407/reference
Esmé says: “What an emotional and hard/tender movie about three young girls in Brooklyn. Packed a punch. In fact, I thought it had striking similarities with THE CIRCLE, in the sense of the limited opportunities, and in fact freedom, for those poor and female. One has the tendency to watch a movie about the repression of Iranian women and think, ‘Oh God, it’s so bad there.’ But the fact is, for many, it ain’t so great here in the Greatest Country In The World either. Plus, the footage of the marching band made every one I have ever seen look like upright corpses.”
Kevin says: “OUR SONG is easily one of the very best pictures of the year. It is the story of three friends in inner city New York, all of whom are in their school’s marching band. They learn that their school is being shut down because of asbestos poisoning, and their relationships with each other begin to change. It’s filmed in a verite style that is very reminiscent of THE DREAMLIFE OF ANGELS. It’s also extremely tightly directed and written by Jim McKay, and wonderfully performed by Kerry Washington, Anna Simpson and Melissa Martinez as the three friends. I really recommend this film; it’s a gem.”
Laura says: “Watched OUR SONG last night and quite enjoyed it. While I found the first 1/2 hour a bit slow, the film found it’s momentum once it introduced a crisis for one of the three lead characters. I was particularly impressed at how naturally the supporting adult roles were played. Each of the three girls had a totally different family situation – Lanisha’s mom being supportive, Maria’s forcing her into a breadwinning role and Joy’s like an older sister. Best of all was the Jackie Robinson Stepping Marching band as themselves.”3 cats
Mary says: “It was wonderful. Great performances. Have to admit, this movie hooked me right away with its opening scene of the marching band. My son Tim did Marching Band in high school, and it sure brought back memories.” 4.5 cats
Michael says: “Jim McKay, director of GIRLS TOWN, has fashioned an honest and moving coming-of-age story about three high school girls in Brooklyn whose strong ties of friendship are slowly unraveling as they pursue different paths. What made OUR SONG such a delight for me was the lack of drugs, gun violence, and over-the-top melodrama that are so prevalent in urban dramas. The three protagonists of OUR SONG wrestle with preparations for their ‘high-steppin” band’s Labor Day parade, boyfriends, jobs, sex and its consequences, and their school which is closing due to an asbestos problem.
“This final event is the impetus for the movie, as the three friends find themselves with the possibility of attending different schools in the fall. Their relationships unfold and unravel so gradually and realistically without any major confrontations or fights… much the same as real life. Their relationships with parents are interesting to see, just as it is interesting to see the three grow in different directions.” 4.5 cats
Nathaniel says: “Really impressed with this naturalistic film from Jim McKay. I’m sure some people will find it boring (it’s completely lacking in Hollywood aesthetic -good for it!) but I thought it was a clearheaded exploration of a very particular culture.
And I loved that it didn’t beat me over the head with a message. It was there in whatever way you wanted to view it. For those of us who obsess about socio-economic structures, it had a lot to say…or at least imply. For an obviously low budget indie, the acting was far above par, particularly that of Kerry Washington as Lanisha. Wow, a total natural as an actor.”
For Nathaniel’s complete review: “http://www.members.tripod.com/filmbitch/Reviews/intimacy”
Nathaniel T. says: “OUR SONG is a near masterpiece in my mind. The most refreshingly naturalistic film I’ve seen in a long time. The characters, dialog, story, and ending never seem forced. The script is almost invisible (I’m sure some of it was improvised), and the actors have a blast realizing their characters. Dealing with subjects such as teenage pregnancy, suicide, and romantic turmoil without fake pathos or artificial sentiment. The ensemble is outstanding. The three main actresses are naturals, but Kerry Washington is best in show. Her performance is natural and sympathetic without any visible effort. OUR SONG ends up being a small miracle, perhaps one of the most ignored wonders of the year.” 5 cats