Cast
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Lovie Simone
as Selah Summers
Celeste O'Connor
as Paloma Davis
Jharrel Jerome
as Maxxie Ayoade
Jesse Williams
as Headmaster Banton
Ana Mulvoy-Ten
as Bobby Pellegrino
Evan Roe
as Two Tom
Henry Hunter Hall
as Tarit Toll Perilstein
Francesca Noel
as Amber Bolfo
Nekhebet Kum Juch
as Nuri
Gina Torres
as Maybelle Summers
Bella Ferragamo
as Jasika
Kristen Ivy Haynes
as Malika
Greyson Cage
as Reggie
Benjamin Breault
as David
Krish Bhuva
as Mooks
Crew
Director
- Tayarisha Poe
Producer
- Drew P. Houpt
- Lauren McBride
- Jill Ahrens
- Tayarisha Poe
- Lucas Joaquin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Selah and the Spades 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 Tayarisha Poe 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 2019, 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 Selah and the Spades took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 132 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Selah and the Spades shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Charly, which focuses more on action than character development, Selah and the Spades offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood and Little Women explore similar territory, Selah and the Spades stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: January 27, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 37m
Where to Watch
