Cru

I met the writer "accidentally" at the ABFF in New York City and he invited me to preview Cru. Oliver Ottley is both a gracious individual and a talented writer.

His writing has some memorable lines that I still quote -- and the director beautifully visualizes the writer's intentions on film. Weaving appropriate music (watch for a lead actor with a gorgeous voice) and flashbacks allows the composing team to tell a beautiful, sometimes joyful, sometimes humorous, and sometimes bittersweet story of an unusual reunion of four basketball players years later.

I understand that Cru captured most awards at the ABFF -- and well-deserved from this writer's perspective. The post-conference (after the screening) allowed me the opportunity to hear the cast members answer questions and reflect on the craftsmanship.

Please do not miss this movie -- it is fabulous!

The Cru storyline is easy to follow and identify with. The acting is excellent, and the emotional intensity of each scene was palpable. I gave the film a solid A-. It touches on the issue of teenage driving under the influence without being cliché or preachy. There's bound to be a situation or character in this film that each viewer can identify with. The film is really about the effect that one decision or a single moment can have on the rest of your life. Definitely going to pull at a few heartstrings. Several of the film's themes will resonate with the audience. The score for the film is excellent as well. I was impressed with the music and appropriateness of some of the selections. The photography and editing of Cru adds to the intensity of certain scenes and enhance the viewing experience. Overall I enjoyed watching a film featuring Black actors that was about everyday issues of the human experience. It's not just a story of perpetuating stereotypes. I look forward to this film becoming a classic among multiple film enthusiasts worldwide.

It's refreshing to watch a film where the story touches a heavy subject in such a light manner. Friendship, brotherhood & redemption, and how much this actually shapes a man's life, usually is portrayed in a war or other kind of extreme situations in Hollywood movies. But in Cru, four ordinary guys leading ordinary lives (it could happen to any of us) pulls us into its ups and downs and its surprises, laughing and crying throughout the film. Cru gives us a window into African American society and its cultural problems while still being relevant to anyone.

We usually form a life-long friendships at school, a special kind of bond that we might never find again later in our adult life. And we grow apart because of success, wealth, love jealousy or grudge on a past mistakes all too often. But in the end, we are who we are because of whom we were with in a crucial moment of our life.

Very well written story plus great acting and wonderful chemistry among the four friends. A very enjoyable ride.

This has a very good storyline, and I like how the characters were able to come full circle from close friends to estrange relationship, and back to close friends again despite a tragedy. Good to see a black cast doing good work and putting a positive message out there using real life situations that happen within our community. Whenever you have a movie that can draw you in, and make you identify with one or more characters as yourself, it leaves a lasting impression on you, and that is exactly what happened to me while watching this great movie. You get to walk away with learning life lessons, and it makes you evaluate your own personal friendships, realizing that life is too short to not be surrounded by the people you love. I thought it was a very well written movie, glad I had a chance to view it.

This movie has such great meaning. Must see to appreciate!!!!!! I've seen it several times and told my family and friends about it!!!! Tear jerker close to end....