The Fits

"The Fits" is a surrealist film and it should be seen as one. Not everyone is a fan of surrealism and that is why they dislike this movie so much, but do not be discouraged if you do not understand every part of "The Fits", it is meant to make you think. I will say, the acting is excellent, specifically the lead, and everything is beautifully shot. If you are seeing this movie and have never seen a surrealist film, do not be discouraged, instead look into surrealist film and use this movie as an example, because it's a wonderful one. 9/10 is a little high for me but I believe this movie is misunderstood and it deserves reviews from people who understand it or at least try to.

This movie blew me away. A smart and well made film that takes it's time, develops characters, spotlights fitting in, and actually has symbolism that means something. The direction, cinematography, lighting, acting, and general filmmaking on display is masterful. The only negative I can think of is that is can feel a little too slow sometimes. Even then It always kept my interest. I really enjoyed this film and can't wait for the director's next project.

Independent Director Anna Rose Holmer (Producer of Jody Lee Lipes' "Ballet 422"), along with writer Saela Davis, present a female coming of age project filled with few words, yet provocative in meaning and intention. The cast is filled with real life youth Cincinnati drill team members, featuring strong raw performances by Toni (Royalty Hightower), her cool brother Donte (Antonio A.B. Grant Jr.), and the lovable Breezy (Alexis Noblest), all who are trying to find their way in a society that has forgotten about them. Because dialogue is at a minimum here, with individual performances driving the film and dialogue delivery at times amateur, the viewing audience must make what they will out of the vague storyline presented. Unfortunately, this lazy-faire direction by Holmer leaves the film with spurts of boredom. However, when the viewing experience is over, one can't help but want to speak to someone about what was just presented. Is "The Fits" about the desire to fit in, the epidemic currently playing out in Flint Michigan, about bonding at all costs, or something completely else? While the film may be garnering a lot of attention, I heard more "C" ratings than "A" ratings at the screening I attended (including mine), and many film attendees (again including myself) were left with more questions than the film answered.

In a reverse of your typical stereotypes, main protagonist Toni is a girl who actually starts out as a boxer (in training, mostly so that her boxing brother can keep an eye on her while he trains) decides to make a switch to the all-girl dance team that practices next door. It's a great coming-of-age story about a girl trapped in a bubble she needs to pop. When I saw the trailer, I noticed that the lead actress playing Toni is getting mad props for her performance, which she does deserve, but I also fell in love with the performance of the supporting actress whose plays Breezy, the friend that Toni makes when she joins the dance crew. The entire relationship was done simple and natural and yet sends a powerful message on friendship. Watching both of these young black actresses on the screen sharing scenes together made the movie for me. There was a big metaphor in the movie that I did not fully understand about the girls having seizures because of contaminated water, it has something to do with fitting in but I'm not fully sure. Otherwise, I absolutely enjoined this movie, especially the chemistry between the two young actors