Grace Miller's 60-Second Review of Nickel Boys
“Nickel Boys” is a 2024 American historical drama directed by RaMell Ross, adapted from Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. The film explores the harrowing experiences of two African-American boys, Elwood and Turner, at a segregated reform school in 1960s Florida, inspired by the real-life Dozier School for Boys.
Main Cast:
Ethan Herisse as Elwood Curtis: A young man whose aspirations are derailed by an unjust conviction.
Brandon Wilson as Turner: Elwood's friend and fellow inmate at Nickel Academy.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Hattie: Elwood's devoted grandmother.
Daveed Diggs as Adult Elwood: Portraying Elwood in his later years.
Hamish Linklater as Spencer: The corrupt superintendent of Nickel Academy.
Fred Hechinger as Harper: An employee involved in the school's labor program.
The film employs a unique first-person point-of-view cinematography, immersing the audience directly into the protagonists' experiences. This creative choice has been lauded for its intimacy and impact.
"Nickel Boys" premiered at the 51st Telluride Film Festival on August 30, 2024, followed by a limited theatrical release in December 2024. The film has received critical acclaim, earning nominations for Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay at the 97th Academy Awards.