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Daveed Diggs as “Collin” and Rafael Casal as “Miles” in BLINDSPOTTING. Photo by: Ariel Nava.
Every now and then a film emerges that lingers long after the final credits roll. In such rare cases, the cinematic expression speaks to the viewer on a level that burrows like a seed; like a seed planted into the rich soil of the soul. The cinematography of such films, along with a well written script executed by committed performances of its actors, acts like water and sunlight. Such are the essential ingredients needed for a seed’s survival. Daveed Diggs' and Rafael Casal’s self-scripted offering are the nutriments that give a cinematic seed called BLINDSPOTTING life. BLINDSPOTTING is a movie that is destined and deserves to be celebrated.
Urban gentrification, race relations and life-long friendships are the challenging themes explored in an edgy, socially sophisticated and entertaining manner during the course of BLINDSPOTTING. Original hip-hop and narrative rap lyrics move the story along brilliantly as our two heroes cope with their changing environment in Oakland, California, which rapidly morphs into the preferred domestic residence for young upscale professionals. The unique storytelling narrative told through rap was so eloquently executed that it reminded one of what original hip-hop and rap lyrics were all about, and the true necessity of the art form.
When rap first emerged, it was a vehicle for commentary and protest. Before rap’s transformation into self-serving descriptions of money, sex and material excess, rap artists were the spokespeople who gave voice to the insufferable conditions that the economically and racially-marginalized communities faced on a daily basis. Rap originally put a spotlight on people in America who didn’t have a chance. Rap let the rest of the country and the world know that they too existed. Rap’s unique brand of poetry gave voice to millions of people who were systematically discounted and ignored. BLINDSPOTTING returns to hip-hop’s true roots in order to remedy societal wrongs; an awesome cinematic rap resurrection.
Tisha Campbell-Martin stars as 'Mama Liz' in BLINDSPOTTING. Photo Credit: Robby Baumgartner
Diggs and Casal’s journey to the creation of BLINDSPOTTING included the immensely impressive efforts of Director Carlos Lopez Estrada, Cinematographer Robby Baumgartner, Editor Gabriel Fleming, and additional producers Jessica Calder and Keith Calder. The production house affiliated with Lionsgate Distribution that was brilliant enough to recognize the talents of Diggs and Casal is Ukraine-based Foley Walkers Studio.
BLINDSPOTTING is in theaters now. Make sure you get a ticket.