Big Words

Big Words is an engaging drama set against the urban backdrop of Brooklyn, New York. The movie is a tribute to the era of hip-hop in the 90's and the deeply profound relationships that evolve between individuals amidst their shared history and personal dilemmas. The film stars the exceptionally talented Dorian Missick, Suzy Jane Hunt, and Gbenga Akinnagbe, who collectively bring to life the dynamics of friendship, failure, and the relentless quest for redemption.

Directed by Neil Drumming, Big Words takes us to the eve of Barack Obama's historic 2008 election. Amid the aura of hope and change filling the nation, the film focuses on a group of friends and failed rap artists—John, James, and Terry, who were once part of a promising but ill-fated rap group 'The Wanderers'. The group fractured years ago, leaving each character to confront his own disillusionments, regrets, and fantasies. As the night of the election unfurls, the past and present of 'The Wanderers' start to intersect, setting the course of their futures.

Dorian Missick brilliantly portrays John 'Big Words' Daniels, the former frontman of the group who, despite his strong external facade, is plagued by the missed opportunities and regrets of his past. On the other hand, Gbenga Akinnagbe's character, James 'Jayvee' Johnson, struggles in his continuous pursuit to keep his musical aspirations alive in an industry that has repeatedly let him down. Then there's Terry, portrayed by Darien Sills-Evans, who has strayed farther than his friends from his hip-hop past and is now a booker for an influential political talk show.

The film deftly explores the themes of nostalgia, forgiveness, personal growth, and the complex relationship between success and failure. It is also a tale of reconciliation and the power of shared experiences in mending broken relationships. Music, specifically the potent cultural force of hip-hop, forms a significant backdrop for the plot. It not only amplifies the narrative's unfolding but also lends a tangible layer of emotion to the narrative.

It is evident that Director Neil Drumming approaches the story from not just a place of fandom for the era of the 90's music but also a nuanced understanding of the intricacies of human relationships. He masterfully crafts a narrative that explores how even in the face of abandoned dreams, individuals can find redemption and solace within the woven tapestry of shared memories and camaraderie.

Character development in Big Words is commendable. The characters' journey from being youthful dreamers to battle-worn adults wrestling with their place in the world is portrayed realistically and powerfully. This brings out the innate human quality in each character and helps the audience to connect and empathize with them. The performances by Dorian Missick, Gbenga Akinnagbe, and Darien Sills-Evans are strikingly poignant - each actor encapsulates their character's internal struggle with remarkable sincerity, which adds to the emotional weight of the narrative.

The setting of the film in Brooklyn, New York, gives it a unique urban feel, breeding a sense of authenticity. Cinematographer Daniel Patterson renders the landscape of Brooklyn in a way that reflects the mood and sentiments of the characters, while traversing the tapestry of hope, despair, and redemption that characterizes their lives.

Big Words also makes a bold statement about the times we live in, dealing with subtexts of race, identity, and politics with commendable subtlety and complexity. It steps away from conventional story-telling, and through the past of 'The Wanderers', it explores the narrative of contemporary America - one that is evolving and yet constantly harking back to the times of the cultural music, hip-hop, and socio-political change.

All in all, Big Words is not just a story about three friends and their broken dreams, but it is a cinematic journey that will tug at your heartstrings. It's a beautiful blend of music, personal turmoil, societal expectations, and the power of togetherness that indeed makes it a must-watch.