Rivers Wash Over Me

This film was a mix between an interesting story-telling to could have been a wonderful film only if the director or the writer could have tried to not show too many things. Had they focussed on certain fewer aspects, this could have been an even better film. There are so many under or even undeveloped characters and sub plots that you have a hard time keeping a pulse on the main story line.

Sequan, a black teenager, has to move to rural Alabama from New York when his mother passes, to live with his Aunt (not sure what the exact relationship with her was). He is coming to terms with the new place. The town is all about black folks, drugs, guns etc. Sequan is bullied at school and is also raped by his cousin Michael who is a basketball star and doesn't want to accept the fact that he might be gay too. Enter Laurie, who for some reasons take a liking to Sequan and that's when he first confides in someone that he is gay. Meanwhile in the town a gun is robbed and a black boy is killed. The sheriff who also happens to be Sequan's uncle is having a hard time finding the culprits since no one in the town is supporting. Sequan meets Laurie's brother and they just embark on a beautiful relationship when suddenly the sheriff raids the school , tries to find the culprit and in the entire process Sequan ends up getting shot and Michael is arrested.

Just as we begin to root for the two boys and their budding relationship, the film abruptly ends, leaving us bewildered. Like I mentioned above, even Sequan's character was under developed. You never really felt sorry for him because you just didn't know enough about his past. Acting wise, Laurie and Sequan stand out. Everyone else is just annoying. Jake (laurie's brother) has a small part and does well.

Strictly an alright film which could have been so much better. (5/10)