Cast
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Gugu Mbatha-Raw
as Noni Jean
Nate Parker
as Kazaam Nicol
Minnie Driver
as Macy Jean
mgk
as Kid Culprit
Danny Glover
as Captain Nicol
Aml Ameen
as Trey
Benito Martinez
as Jesse Soria
Aisha Hinds
as J Stanley
India Jean-Jacques
as Noni (age 10)
Darryl Stephens
as Quentin
Elaine Tan
as April
Isaac Keys
as Jonas
Tyler Christopher
as Liam King
Deidrie Henry
as Deidrie Henry
Estelle
as Estelle
Crew
Director
- Gina Prince-Bythewood
Writer
- Gina Prince-Bythewood
Producer
- Stephanie Allain
- Ryan Kavanaugh
- Reggie Rock Bythewood
- Amar'e Stoudemire
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Beyond the Lights examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Beyond the Lights took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $7.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 116 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Beyond the Lights shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike My Life Without Me, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Beyond the Lights subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Open Hearts and Italian for Beginners explore similar territory, Beyond the Lights stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 14, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 56m
- Budget: $7,000,000
- Revenue: $14,600,000
Where to Watch
