The Hate U Give

The Hate U Give

This movie is, by all accounts, a faithful adaptation of the popular young adult novel by Angie Thomas.

The story centres on Starr Carter (Amandla Stenberg), a black teen growing up in a tough neighbourhood, whose parents decide to send her and her older brother, Seven (Lamar Johnson), to a better, safer, predominantly white high-school in a nicer neighbourhood. As a result, Starr finds herself leading a double life – her more authentic self at home and a modified, code-switched version when she’s at school. These worlds collide when she becomes primary witness to the shooting of her childhood friend by a white policeman. It’s a piercingly real and relevant storyline, told in a way that makes it accessible but not too sanitised for a younger audience.

The script is terrific with well written, believable dialogue (people over 30 might need an urban dictionary, though). Stenberg is the standout but is surrounded by an equally strong cast. It’s a powerful movie, with its edges softened by heartwarming characters and genuine humour. 

★★★ ½

Reviewed by Rita Bratovich

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