Miss Juneteenth

I saw a lot of myself and my family in this movie which I appreciated the representation of. All the worry about money and Nichole Beharie having to jump through hoops and play the game to get her daughter ahead in life is what being a Black parent is all about, truly a excellent performance. Kai, her daughter, is extremely adorable and we can sense her inner dreamer ready to burst out when given the water and sunlight needed to flourish. She represents all of us children of immigrants or multiple generation African Americans who are finding their place in a world that has yet to make the space for them. Having to worry about getting full ride scholarships and juggling her love and inner truths is weighty stuff and she handles it all with grace and heart. So deserved of the Gotham award hopefully this awesome indie movie and Nikki get their dues down the like as well <3

Reflecting the lives of many single mothers, with the hand they've been dealt not the one they'd dreamt of, but with no choice but to play it regardless. A mother, who had her child young, perhaps younger than she had wished in her dreams, tries to avoid the same pitfalls for her daughter against overwhelming odds, compounded by poverty, lack of opportunity and poor paternal support (amongst other things) - persevering nonetheless. Genuine and sincere performances support the central character played by Nicole Beharie who is outstanding. A far from uncommon story the world over.

Nicole Beharie shines as an African American mother who wants her teenage duaghter ("Chikaeze") to win the Miss Juneteenth pageant and take advantage of the opportunities she was not able to seize in her own life. Peoples uses a delicate touch to tell this touching mother daughter story, and deserves a lot of praise as a first time director.

This is just a good, solid character-based story that delivers. The pacing is perfect for this type of narrative, the characters were well developed and realistic, the dialogue spot on. Throw in the true-to-life BBQ pit and it's the right mix to make a good film.

7/10 - this entertaining and important film akes for good Juneteenth viewing and gives a spotlight to the culturally significant pageant in a place you might not expect it.