This story is taken from the James Baldwin novel, which revolves around the dedicated, intense love between a young woman (Kiki Layne) and her fiancé (Stephan James). Their idyllic time is challenged when he’s unjustly imprisoned and she must maintain their relationship, while preparing to have their baby. Director Barry Jenkins has infused the film with moments of poetic beauty and touching affection (between the couple and with her family). As lovely as this is, almost every scene revels in its lyric artistry too long, which makes the drama harder to endure. Still, with affecting performances and creative direction, this is a challenging art film with a strong social message.

Movie website