Queen & Slim (2019)

Queen & Slim Poster

While on a forgettable first date together in Ohio, a black man and a black woman are pulled over for a minor traffic infraction. The situation escalates, with sudden and tragic results.

Plot Introduction
"Queen & Slim" is a 2019 American romantic drama film directed by Melina Matsoukas. The movie script is written by Lena Waithe, from a story by Waithe and James Frey. The film deals with styles around bigotry, authorities violence, romance and freedom while embedding them in an extreme journey story. The two primary characters, played by Daniel Kaluuya and Jodie Turner-Smith, are referred to as Slim and Queen.

Beginning
The movie starts with Slim, a retail employee, and Queen, a criminal defense attorney, having an awkward first date in Cleveland, Ohio. On their way home, their car gets pulled over by a white police officer since of a small traffic infraction. Tension intensifies when the officer pulls out his gun. In the ensuing scuffle, Slim grabs the officer's weapon and kills him in self-defense.

Runaway Journey
Following this horrible incident, they decide to escape. As the dashcam video footage of the event goes viral, Queen and Slim become folk heroes. All the while, their criminal activity sets off a national manhunt. As Queen and Slim avert the authorities, they pass through the nation, conference various individuals who help them on their journey - from a Sheriff who turns a blind eye to the uncle of Queen, who is a pimp living in New Orleans.

Romantic Evolvement and Growth
As they continue on their journey through the nation, their relationship begins to bloom. Despite the regrettable circumstances that brought them together, the two fall in love while on the run, showing strength, perseverance, and shared respect for each other. Their relationship grows from an uncomfortable setup to a deep bond, displaying the heart of the movie: a romantic courtship in the bleakest situations.

Conclusion and Climax
Their journey comes to a tragic end in Florida when they are surrounded by the cops. Refusing to be arrested, they state their love for each other prior to trying to give themselves as much as the police. But unfortunately, as they leave their cars and truck, an officer shoots Queen. In a fit of rage, Slim picks her up and attempts to walk away however is gunned down also, leading to a heartbreaking and extensive end to their journey.

Impact
"Queen & Slim" records themes of racism, cops violence, and the experience of being black in America - all tied together with a non-traditional love story. It uses effective images and poignant minutes revealed through compelling efficiencies by the lead characters. Specified by its remarkable story, moving soundtrack and expansive cinematography, the movie efficiently exposes the ingrained problems of racial profiling and authorities cruelty, while capturing the human capability for love, connection and resistance in the face of difficulty. The story of "Queen & Slim" resonates profoundly in our conflicted world, painting a touching and terrible picture of race, love, and freedom.

Top Cast

  • Daniel Kaluuya (small)
    Daniel Kaluuya
    Slim
  • Jodie Turner-Smith (small)
    Jodie Turner-Smith
    Queen
  • Bokeem Woodbine (small)
    Bokeem Woodbine
    Uncle Earl
  • ChloĆ« Sevigny (small)
    Chloƫ Sevigny
    Mrs. Shepherd
  • Flea (small)
    Flea
    Mr. Shepherd
  • Sturgill Simpson (small)
    Sturgill Simpson
    Police Officer Reed
  • Indya Moore (small)
    Indya Moore
    Goddess
  • Benito Martinez (small)
    Benito Martinez
    Sheriff Edgar
  • Jahi Di'Allo Winston (small)
    Jahi Di'Allo Winston
    Junior
  • Gralen Bryant Banks (small)
    Gralen Bryant Banks
    Older Black Man
  • Dickson Obahor (small)
    Dickson Obahor
    Large Black Man