Somebody I Used to Know movie review (2023)

"Somebody I Used to Know" is a 2023 American drama film directed by Ava DuVernay and written by Lena Waithe. The film stars Janelle Monáe, Michael B. Jordan, and Lupita Nyong'o in lead roles, with supporting performances from Sterling K. Brown, Regina King, and Mahershala Ali.

The film follows the story of a young woman named Naomi (Monáe) who returns to her hometown after several years away. She finds herself confronted with the ghosts of her past, including her ex-boyfriend Malik (Jordan) and her former best friend Aisha (Nyong'o). As she reconnects with these people from her past, Naomi is forced to confront the choices she made that led to her leaving town and the impact those choices had on the people she left behind.

The film's themes of regret, redemption, and forgiveness are explored through strong performances from the ensemble cast. Janelle Monáe delivers a standout performance as Naomi, capturing the character's complex emotions as she grapples with the consequences of her actions. Michael B. Jordan also shines as Malik, portraying a man who is struggling to move on from the pain of their past relationship.

The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the world of the characters. The use of flashbacks and nonlinear storytelling adds depth to the narrative, allowing the audience to understand the motivations of the characters and the history they share.

One of the film's greatest strengths is its depiction of small-town life. The setting of the film is a fictional town in the American Midwest, and the filmmakers capture the unique culture and nuances of life in a small community. The film portrays the beauty of close-knit relationships and the challenges that come with living in a place where everyone knows your business.

The film also touches on important social issues, including race, gender, and sexuality. Lena Waithe's script explores the intersectionality of these issues and how they impact the lives of the characters. The film doesn't shy away from difficult conversations, but rather uses them as a way to deepen our understanding of the characters and their experiences.

Overall, "Somebody I Used to Know" is a beautifully crafted film that explores the complexities of human relationships. The film's themes of regret and redemption are universal, and the strong performances from the ensemble cast elevate the material to new heights. It is a film that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.

The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with stunning visuals that capture the beauty of the Midwest landscape. The use of natural light and muted colors creates a sense of intimacy and authenticity, making the film feel like a true slice of life.

One of the film's few weaknesses is its length. At just over two hours, the film can feel slow at times, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary. However, the strong performances and compelling narrative make up for any pacing issues.

The film's soundtrack is also noteworthy, with a mix of contemporary and classic tracks that enhance the emotional impact of the story. From Janelle Monáe's haunting rendition of "Somebody I Used to Know" to Mahershala Ali's powerful performance of "A Change Is Gonna Come," the music adds depth and resonance to the film's themes.

The film's exploration of race and gender is particularly poignant. The characters' experiences are shaped by their identities, and the film does not shy away from depicting the realities of discrimination and prejudice. However, the film also offers a message of hope, showing how the characters are able to transcend the limitations placed on them by society and find redemption through their relationships with each other.

The film's ending is bittersweet, leaving the audience with a sense of closure but also a feeling of longing. The film's central message is that while we cannot change the past, we can learn from our mistakes and make amends for the harm we have caused. It is a message that is both uplifting and poignant, and one that will resonate with viewers long after they leave the theater.

In conclusion, "Somebody I Used to Know" is a must-see film that explores the complexities of human relationships in a way that is both authentic and thought-provoking. The film's strong performances and beautiful cinematography make it a standout work of cinema, and the themes it explores will resonate with audiences long after they leave the theater. Ava DuVernay and Lena Waithe have crafted a truly exceptional film that is sure to be remembered for years to come.