One Lyfe to Life

Here is my honest critique. Overall, this was a good movie. The story was well written with some good subplots. The pacing was good, a few slow moments, but good. This story depicted a realistic and relatable view of how some young men are caught in this never ending web of street life. Good way to depict the mother's fears of loosing their children to the street life. I am glad that this movie did not romanticize the street life, but displayed both sides, action and consequences. I thought some of the actors could have been a little stronger in their performances and there were a few audio issues throughout. The musical score was captivating and really gave this movie a soul. Good job.

This film delves deep into the challenges faced by a young man navigating the harsh realities of life in New York. With powerful storytelling and raw emotions, it is a compelling watch. As a white man, it is very eye opening. It shows the complexities of a world that has been oversimplified by mainstream narratives. I also loved the gritty cinematography that effectively captured the essence of urban life. The characters are also real and allowed me to connect with the struggles and aspirations of Lyfe. He is real and relatable, even to someone unfamiliar with his world. This film not only serves as an entertaining story of survival but also is very thought-provoking. I highly suggest it.

"One Lyfe to Live" is a hard-hitting drama about a lost soul who wants to leave his rough street life, but his neighborhood and associates keeps pulling him back in. Masterfully directed by Deborah Cardona and Kevin Bencosme, who kept the pacing tight and the character's moral dilemma real and heartfelt. The relationship between Lyfe and his girlfriend, and his friendship with a mentor from the streets are relatable and sincere, and the twists heartbreaking and intriguing.

This film tells an engrossing urban tale that kept me captivated entire time. The writing and directing are unflinching, and the capable ensemble cast kept the story going at a fast pace. As we follow Lyfe's journey through a world of violence and adversity, his future is marked by uncertainty, yet he faces life with a resilient spirit. Nicholas Sanchez is powerful and intriging as the lead character Lyfe, and I found myself rooting for him at the end of the film. Lyfe's character is well developed, allowing viewers to empathize with both his pain and hope for a better life. The film features several characters who offers support and show Lyfe there is a better way, I found their moments to be inspirational that offers a glimmer of hope for the youths in the at-risk communities. The supporting cast excels in bringing colors and perspectives to those he loves, who utimately shapes Lyfe's experiences,

Overall, I enjoyed watching "One Lyfe To Live" and found it to be a powerful film that shines a spotlight on the challenges faced by young black men in society. This is an important drama that is thought provoking and powerful, and well worth a watch.

'One Lyfe to Life' is an atmospheric film that builds its tension slowly. The visuals are intended to create a gritty, raw feel. Despite the simplicity of the visuals and lighting, they still immerse a viewer and allow one to be fully absorbed into the story of Lyfe, who is living in a tumultuous struggle in New York. The slow motion during some of the confrontation sequences is warranted and the use of deep depth of field allows the viewer to take in the full landscape/atmosphere. Wonderful score and overall, the flow of the scenes works well. The film could have been further immersive with cleaner sound in some places and enhanced performances, but still a great story of perseverance with a theological undertone.

First off, this movie is oozing with style, lots of well thought out slow motion and intentionally minimal sound design set it apart. The music is on another level, I loved all of it and even threw a few songs into my playlist. I'd be super interested in seeing what these guys could do with more expert cinematography.

The plot revolves around a 20-something black man living in NYC. The plot is a little thin, but in a way it's kind of perfect for this experience. His story sort of wanders forward, weaving in and out of others lives, no part of it more important than any other, yet all of it together is like a full picture made of smaller puzzle pieces. I found myself super engaged with Lyfe (and especially with his budding relationship with Ayana) and his struggles, even as he made poor choices and learned his lessons. Lots of wisdom scattered throughout and I appreciate that the filmmakers took the subject matter seriously. Bittersweet ending really hit hard.