Flex is Kings

Flex Is Kings is a 2013 documentary film helmed by Deidre Schoo and Michael Beach Nichols. This ground-breaking film provides an authentic and unfiltered view into the exhilarating world of "Flexing", a term denoting an innovative form of street dance that has its roots in East New York, Brooklyn. This cinematic documentation of artistry and youthful resilience features noted street dancers DJ Aaron, Anime, and Kareem Baptiste.

The film's narrative begins by delving into the vibrant, energetic domain of Flex enclaves prevalent in Brooklyn's impoverished neighborhoods. Flexing, a dance style that amalgamates bone breaking, gliding, and hat tricks, among other things, serves as a powerful channel of self-expression and escape for many young people residing in those neighborhoods. These talented dancers demonstrate the powerfully expressive style of Flexing at local dance battles, neighborhood parties, and even on the subway, making the urban landscape their stage.

The primary stars of the film are a motley trio of highly talented dancers, DJ Aaron, Anime, and Kareem Baptiste. These individuals, through their vibrant narratives, provide the audience with a glimpse into Brooklyn's Flex scene, thus making it the epicenter of the film.

DJ Aaron is a charismatic, street-savvy event organizer and one of the most respected figures in Brooklyn's Flex scene. He brings his immense energy and love for the dance, organizing dance battles and providing a platform for these talented dancers to display their skills. This not only adds to the local community flavor but also gives these dancers a chance to shine despite their challenging circumstances.

Anime, the talented and ambitious dancer, strives to transcend the boundaries of his community through his vigorous efforts and passionate pursuits. His journey reflects the struggles faced by many of these talented dancers who often juggle multiple jobs to support themselves and their families, all while perfecting their art form and competing in dance battles.

On the other hand, Kareem Baptiste, a reflective and philosophical individual, provides a more profound perspective into this subculture. His narratives underscore the significance of dance as an effective medium to overcome adversity, bring communities closer and foster a sense of belonging. He often struggles with accepting the competitive and often harsh nature of dance battles but remains deeply committed to Flexing and its value to him and his community.

The directors Schoo and Nichols brilliantly capture the passion and ambition of these dancers by portraying their struggles, victories, and indomitable spirits. Flex is Kings offers a fascinating montage of dance sequences interspersed with personal narratives that contain soaring victories and crushing disappointments. The dance battles showcased are particularly captivating, featuring a unique blend of competition and camaraderie that encapsulates the philosophy of Flexing. The compelling soundtrack complements the narrative, thus enhancing the overall film experience.

One of the most potent aspects of Flex is Kings is its socio-political underpinnings. It does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of living in some of Brooklyn's most challenging neighborhoods. However, it does so without objectifying the dancers or their circumstances. Instead, it is daring in its depiction of systemic problems and highlights the perseverance and resilience of these dancers, providing them an empowering platform to share their stories.

Flex is Kings is an engrossing film that goes beyond being just a dance documentary. It artistically explores a pulsating social trend within the framework of street dance, mirroring the realities of a community, and showcasing exceptional human resilience in the face of adversity. This film is a must-watch for dance enthusiasts as well as individuals interested in narratives of triumph and survival that resonate deep within the human spirit.