UK Poster for "The Hate U Give"

By Isabel Herrera

The Hate U Give” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that not only explores the complex issue of race, but also police brutality along with social justice in america. Throughout the movie, the audience is also shown how messed up our society is. 

The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Angie Thomas. The movie follows the story of Starr Carter (Amandla Stenberg), A 16 year old girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend Khalil (Algee Smith) at the hands of a white police officer. The film is directed by George Tillman Jr. and features an impressive ensemble cast that also includes Regina Hall, Russel Hornsby, Issa Rae, and Common. 

One of the strengths of “The Hate U Give” is its ability to capture the nuanced experiences and perspectives of its characters. The film does not shy away from portraying the complexities of the black community and the varied ways in which people respond to systemic racism and police violence. 

Starr’s character, in particular, is well developed and allows the audience to see the impact these issues have on not only the people of color, but young children as well. Amandla Stenberg delivers a standout performance, bringing depth and authenticity to her portrayal of Starr’s struggle to navigate her identity and find her voice to speak out on what’s right and what’s not. 

The film also addresses the role of the media in shaping public perceptions  of police violence and the Black Lives Matter movement. Through Starr’s father, Maverick (Russel Hornsby), we see how the media can distort the truth and perpetuate harmful stereotypes about black people. The film portrayal of the media is especially relevant in today’s world, where the spread of misinformation in news reporting can have real life consequences. 

Another notable aspect of “The Hate U Give” is its exploration of the relationship between law enforcement and the black community. The film does not paint all police officers as villains, but acknowledges that there are systemic issues within the criminal justice system that need to be addressed. The character of Officer Brian (played by Common) serves as a reminder that there are individuals in law enforcement who want to have a positive affect, but are often constrained by the limitations of the system. 

Overall, “The Hate U Give” is a powerful and emotionally charged film that raises important questions about race, justice, and accountability. It is a must-see for anyone who's interested in understanding the complexities of these issues and the impact they have on individuals and communities. 

The film's strong performances, nuanced storytelling, and timely message make it a standout in today’s cinematic landscape. The film leaves a lasting impression on its audience. It is a powerful and poignant exploration of race, police brutality and social justice in America. 

The film does not fail to show how stereotypes and words hurt people and have an effect on communities. I highly recommend “The Hate U Give” to anyone who's looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged cinematic experience. 🐾