Worlds collide when Mavela, a teenage girl with ties to Brussels' Black Bronx gang, meets Marwan, a member of a rival Moroccan gang, at a police station, after they have both been arrested for theft.
Aware of the consequences of getting involved with someone from another gang, they at first resist their attraction to one another, but they can only resist for so long.
Just when they've started to imagine a different life for themselves, a terrifying incident reminds Mavela where she belongs.......
From the plot summary, you'll instantly recognise it as Romeo & Juliet, which this film is loosely based upon. But bear in mind this isn't Baz Lurhmann's world, so don't expect The Cardigans to be playing over the fairy tale-esque cinematography.
This is far beyond the realms of the star cross'd lovers, and even though the fundamental story arc involving the two lovers is basically the Bard gone bad, this is a gritty urban nightmare with much similarities to City Of God, and in some instances, The Warriors.
And while each film in this obscure sub-genre is quite unique and gives you something to sit up and take notice at, they have one predictable trope they all share, it won't end well....
It's a hard watch, from beginning to end, and despite moments of levity between the lovers, the film has an abundance of despair evident.
It's a grimy film, oozing with dirt, anger, and hatred. And although barely any of the characters are likable, you cannot help but pity them and their families.
Yes, they are striking fear into the locals, laughing at the police, but one occurrence can change the way these people feel about walking the street, and it does, my word does an occurrence happen in this film.
It's not a film that you can watch with ease, it's asks many taboo questions, but never gives the answer that you desire.....there is no light at the end of the tunnel.
It's a gripping urban nightmare, and although there are despicable acts depicted, it's an important movie, and should be seen.
Aware of the consequences of getting involved with someone from another gang, they at first resist their attraction to one another, but they can only resist for so long.
Just when they've started to imagine a different life for themselves, a terrifying incident reminds Mavela where she belongs.......
From the plot summary, you'll instantly recognise it as Romeo & Juliet, which this film is loosely based upon. But bear in mind this isn't Baz Lurhmann's world, so don't expect The Cardigans to be playing over the fairy tale-esque cinematography.
This is far beyond the realms of the star cross'd lovers, and even though the fundamental story arc involving the two lovers is basically the Bard gone bad, this is a gritty urban nightmare with much similarities to City Of God, and in some instances, The Warriors.
And while each film in this obscure sub-genre is quite unique and gives you something to sit up and take notice at, they have one predictable trope they all share, it won't end well....
It's a hard watch, from beginning to end, and despite moments of levity between the lovers, the film has an abundance of despair evident.
It's a grimy film, oozing with dirt, anger, and hatred. And although barely any of the characters are likable, you cannot help but pity them and their families.
Yes, they are striking fear into the locals, laughing at the police, but one occurrence can change the way these people feel about walking the street, and it does, my word does an occurrence happen in this film.
It's not a film that you can watch with ease, it's asks many taboo questions, but never gives the answer that you desire.....there is no light at the end of the tunnel.
It's a gripping urban nightmare, and although there are despicable acts depicted, it's an important movie, and should be seen.