Unpacking the Beauty and Flaws of Crooklyn: A Review of the 1994 Classic on Black Life in America
Crooklyn is a Spike Lee joint that tells the story of a black family living in Crooklyn in the 1970s. Spike Lee's Crooklyn tells the coming-of-age story of the main character, Troy, a spunky and rebellious young girl who is surrounded by a cast of colorful characters, including her parents, siblings, and neighbors. Zelda Harris delivers an impressive performance as Troy, the film’s main character. As a young girl who was headstrong and defiant, Harris brings a sense of energy and verve to the role, while also capturing the vulnerability and uncertainty of adolescence. Her interactions with the other members of the cast, particularly her siblings, are some of the film’s most memorable moments. Alfre Woodard leads the cast as Carolyn, the matriarch of the Carmichael family. Woodard delivers a nuanced and powerful performance that captures the complexities of a woman struggling to hold her family together while facing her own health crisis. Her portrayal of Carolyn’s strength, vulnerability, and unwavering love for her family is one of the film’s highlights. Woodard’s performance is a testament to her acting range and ability to bring depth to her characters. She elevates the film with her raw and emotional portrayal of Carolyn, making it a must-see for fans of powerful performances. Delroy Lindo plays Woody, Carolyn’s husband and the father of the Carmichael children. Lindo delivers a strong performance as a man who is often frustrated by the struggles of his family and community, but who ultimately loves and supports them fiercely. His chemistry with Woodard is palpable, and some of the best parts of the movie happen when they are together. David Patrick Kelly’s role as Tony Eyes, a neighborhood drifter who becomes Troy’s friend, and Carlton Williams’s role as Clinton, Troy’s older brother who is trying to find his place in the world, are also great. Together, the cast does a powerful and moving job of showing how a family and community deal with hard times with humor, love, and strength.
