Spoiler Alert! The “Bonnie and Clyde” styled film that is a directorial debut for Melina Matsoukas, Queen and Slim, arrived to the big screens on November 27th, 2019. This on-the-run  story focuses on a couple’s first date that unexpectedly takes a turn as they are pulled over by a policeman for a minor traffic violation. As the situation develops, Slim, in self defense, takes the officers gun shooting and killing him. As a result, the couple flee in hopes to run and evade the law. 

In a society that has established a narrative on the black community, Queen and Slim explores different aspects and stereotypes placed on African Americans in today’s social environment. The film effortlessly combines the beauty of romanticism, as well as the hostile stigmas that plague the black community. Matsouka exposes a variety of underlying mindsets on the issue of police brutality. 

Subliminal messages such as a young boy shooting a black police officer. The officer evidently had good intention as he prompted the young boy to remove himself from a violent Black Lives Matter protest. Another was the unity of two unlikely lovers – coming together to save their own lives. Examples of ‘greed over morals’ are shown when an African-American male tricks Queen and Slim into being apprehended, ultimately resulting in their deaths. The film directly addresses various issues that are beneficial to the current topics in today’s society.

The film, aside from its enlightening messages, included representational direction that clearly depicted society today for black people. The film also had relatable dialogue that offers down to earth conversations with a black woman and a black man paired with realistic scenery. It included a  vintage aesthetic, which was creatively directed by photographer Lelanie Foster. Although the plot was originally set in Ohio, the couple eventually traveled to New Orleans as the film progressed. The scenery is a clear and accurate depiction of a ‘black neighborhood, helping viewers acquire a sense of realism which contributes a modern and accurate view of how society is today. To put it simply, it felt real. It felt as if the audience members were there. We were sucked in. 

Overall, the film was filled with “Oh’s and Ah’s” that kept viewers, such as myself, wanting more. There was a comical component in the film that took the audience’s attention off of the current situation of the plotline, just for a moment. We saw how even in the worst situations, it’s never a bad thing to have a little humor. As the story develops, we see the love between Queen & Slim grow. It raises questions for the viewer. Did love conspire only because they had no choice? Were they falling in genuine love? 

If you’re just sitting home on a friday night, with absolutely nothing to do, Go see Queen and Slim. It’s worth it. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and sympathize!