Never and Again

"Never and Again" is a romantic drama film that came out on BET+ in 2021. Spearheaded by LazRael Lison as director and written by Lison and Tressa Azarel Smallwood, the film masterfully captures the essence of self-discovery and true love.

The film follows the touching narrative of two young lovebirds, Kevin and Jasmine, who find themselves abruptly separated during their teenage years due to the actions they make. The story picks things up again years later when they have transitioned into adulthood and have successfully established their lives. However, as they unexpectedly cross paths again, they have to navigate the waters of past experiences, intimacy, forgiveness, and personal growth.

LazRael Lison brilliantly packs an array of emotions into the narrative, carefully guiding his talented actors as they explore the depths of their characters. “Never and Again” showcases Lison’s directorial finesse and strong storytelling capacity, as he amplifies the narrative with nuance and drama.

In the role of Kevin, Jackie Long grabs the audience's attention with his spirited and soulful performance. On the other hand, the character of Jasmine, portrayed by Denise Boutte, impressively synthesizes Jasmine's personal growth over the years, touching on her maturity and femininity. The electric chemistry between Long and Boutte is palpable, making it easy for the viewers to invest in their relationship.

The supporting cast also adds richness to the story with their performances. Christian Keyes, who plays Reggie, masterfully adds layers to his character, which complements Ella Joyce's role as Rose, Jasmine's mother. Master P and Vanessa Simmons also have significant appearances, adding substance to the storyline with their performances.

One of the special aspects of "Never and Again" is the infusion of music into the narrative. As we know, music has always been a powerful tool in storytelling, especially when it comes to narrating tales of love and relationships. This film successfully infuses an amazing soundtrack, including several R&B tracks, which enhance the cinematic experience and stimulate the audience's emotions.

From a technical standpoint, the film is solidly put together. The cinematography accentuates the emotional depth of scenes, with steady camera movements and well-composed shots blending seamlessly with the film's dramatic narrative. The crisp editing ensures that the film maintains a pulsating rhythm, keeping viewers engaged at all times. Costumes and production design flawlessly reflect the respective timelines, shedding light on the characters’ progression from their teenage years to adulthood.

The themes flowing throughout "Never and Again" resonate on an intimate level with a broad audience. The film tenderly addresses second chances, forgiveness, fortitude and the healing potential of love. It sheds light on how past experiences shape us while reminding us of the transformative power of forgiveness.

In terms of representation, the film shines by reflecting the beauty of Black love on screen. It is imbibed with an African American cast and crew, firmly placing black narratives in the mainstream. On an industry scale, the production contributes significantly to the diversity and inclusivity movement in Hollywood, offering more representation for the African American community.

In conclusion, "Never and Again" on BET+ masters the blend of romance and drama. The film elegantly captures the raw and magnetic pull of love, put through the trial of time, life experiences and personal growth. It engages with audiences on a visceral level, sparking introspective questions and leaving viewers fully rewarded with its intense but thought-provoking narrative.