Imperial Dreams

Imperial Dreams is a compelling drama film that premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Malik Vitthal, with a screenplay by Vitthal and Ismet Prcic, the film was later released on Netflix in 2017. Known for its raw depiction of life in the poverty-stricken parts of Los Angeles, the movie features an impressive array of talent, led by John Boyega, who had moved on to become internationally recognized for his role in the Star Wars franchise.

John Boyega stars in the lead role as Bambi, a 21-year-old reformed gangster whose devotion to his family and future is put to the test when he is released from prison. Referred to as a "post-incarceration" saga, the narrative portrays a young man's struggle with the harsh realities that await him in the city he once thought he understood. Bambi's attempts to navigate violent neighborhoods, broken systems, and government bureaucracy serve as sharp social commentary on the cyclical nature of poverty and crime on the marginalized fringes of society.

Alongside Boyega, the film features robust performances from Rotimi, who plays Bambi's parole officer, and Glenn Plummer, who assumes the role of Bambi's Uncle Shrimp. As Bambi's main familial contact, Shrimp is a character mired in the gang culture that Bambi is desperately trying to escape from, further intensifying the conflict between Bambi's past and potential future.

A character-driven narrative, Imperial Dreams offers a stark look at the plight of those living in the underbelly of Los Angeles, embodied in the Imperial Courts projects where the film takes place. It's not just about survival, but the daunting task of trying to thrive and grow within an environment systematically designed to limit opportunities.

At its core, Imperial Dreams delves into themes such as the relentless pursuit of dreams, the innate hunger for a better life, and the fight against the chains of circumstances. It poses tough questions about family, loyalty, and societal structures. However, it's also a testament to love — love for family, for self, and for an aspiration to transcend adversity.

John Boyega's performance lies at the heart of the film's moving narrative. Boyega imbues Bambi with a depth and complexity that sets this role apart in his filmography. It's a stirring portrayal that earned the movie praise at Sundance. Audiences experience the world from Bambi's perspective; his intent is purely to provide his four-year-old son with a better life, to shield him from the grim realities of their environment, which adds deeply emotional layers to the overall narrative.

Set almost entirely within the confines of the Imperial Courts, the cinematography enhances the story’s tone. Colors are largely muted, the scenery is rough, and the night is shrouded in a sense of danger. It paints a picture of an environment that is as much a character in the story as its residents.

Imperial Dreams uses its narrative to shed light on the often overlooked aspects of society – those living in the fringes, who are fighting every day to hold onto their dreams amid the harshness of reality. A hard-hitting commentary on societal structures, it goes beyond the surface to explore the systemic issues that fuel such environments.

Imperial Dreams successfully combines compelling performances with a thoughtful narrative to offer a view into life within the impoverished segments of Los Angeles. Despite its dark themes, at its heart, the film is a testament to hope and resilience, making it a must-see piece for those interested in insightful storytelling. Despite the odds, through Bambi's determination to dream and work towards that dream, we're reminded of the imperishable spirit that lies inherent in all who dare to aspire.