If Beale Street Could Talk

photo courtesy of iam.film

SPOILER-FREE REVIEW

     Barry Jenkins wrote and directed If Beale Street Could Talk, a romantic drama adapted from James Baldwin’s novel of the same name. Jenkins’ previous film, Moonlight, won Best Picture at the 89^th Academy Awards (in stylish fashion), and If Beale Street Could Talk has garnered its own critical acclaim throughout its limited theatrical run. The movie stars KiKi Layne, Stephan James, Regina King, Colman Domingo, and Brian Tyree Henry, and it features cameo appearances from Diego Luna, Pedro Pascal, and Dave Franco.

     If Beale Street Could Talk is an ambitious, poetic, intimate love story. It follows a young African-American woman named Tish (Layne) and her boyfriend Fonny (James). Fonny has been charged with a crime he didn’t commit. While he awaits trial, Tish discovers that she’s pregnant with Fonny’s child. In the present time, Tish and her family prepare for the baby and seek to clear Fonny’s name; in flashbacks, we witness important moments in Tish and Fonny’s relationship.

photo courtesy of thefilmstage.com

     The movie operates on several different levels—it borrows elements of courtroom or political dramas here and there—but it is first and foremost a romance, charged by the injustice that separates Tish and Fonny. Jenkins’ portrait of the two lovers is unflinching and luminous. It feels like a real relationship, thoughtfully observed by Jenkins and executed by Layne and James with remarkable insight. It is also beautiful, visually (thanks to the impressive work of cinematographer James Laxton), musically (thanks to composer Nicholas Britell), and emotionally. We, the audience, feel like we’re on the outside looking into something private and perfect, like we’re watching the first dance between two newlyweds.

     If Beale Street weaves its romance around a few other plotlines and themes, and it’s a testament to Jenkins’ command of his craft that each element fits together so smoothly. Key supporting performances elevate these subplots; Regina King (who just won a much deserved Golden Globe for her role here) anchors two of the most significant and difficult.

photo courtesy of vanityfair.com

     Jenkins seems to have no problem taking his time, and for the most part, If Beale Street’s slower pace is a welcome part of the experience. Still, Jenkins can be a bit indulgent, sometimes lingering so long that he allows a sweet moment to become saccharine. A few scenes could be tighter or sharper. But for the patient audience member, the imperfections will be easily overshadowed by Jenkins’ considerable talent… and by the movie’s sheer, unimpeachable loveliness.

     FINAL VERDICT: As sweeping and beautiful as Roma but more accessible, If Beale Street Could Talk is a cinematic treasure.

If Beale Street Could Talk is rated R for language and some sexual content.

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