Title: “Heartfelt Coming-of-Age Film ‘We Grown Now’ Captures Childhood Innocence Amidst Urban Turmoil”
In the gauzy nostalgia piece “We Grown Now,” two young boys in 1992 Cabrini-Green, a public housing development in Chicago, charm audiences with their vulnerability and friendship. Malik and Eric, around 10 years old, navigate their broken-down surroundings with dreams and innocence, finding solace in each other’s company.
Malik, a dreamy child with a loving family, and Eric, a more grounded presence with a supportive father and sister, form a bond that feels genuine and heartwarming. As they explore their neighborhood and briefly escape to the Art Institute of Chicago, their friendship shines as one of the truest aspects of the film.
However, their idyllic bubble is shattered when a police raid brings violence and uncertainty to their doorstep. The boys must confront the harsh realities of their environment, leading Malik’s mother to consider moving away for their safety. As Malik delves into his family’s history and the reasons behind their move to Cabrini-Green, the film delves into deeper themes of generational trauma and resilience.
Director Minhal Baig’s storytelling shines through in “We Grown Now,” capturing the essence of childhood innocence amidst urban turmoil. The film’s sound design effectively conveys the boys’ insulated world, while the cinematography and score add layers of emotion to their journey.
While some aspects of the film may feel forced or overly stylized, the core of “We Grown Now” remains a poignant exploration of friendship, resilience, and the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment. With a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes, this PG-rated film is a must-watch for those seeking a heartfelt coming-of-age story set against a backdrop of urban reality.
“We Grown Now” is currently playing in theaters, offering audiences a glimpse into the lives of two boys navigating the complexities of childhood in a turbulent world.
