Title: “Heartfelt Nostalgia and Vulnerability in ‘We Grown Now'”
In the gauzy nostalgia piece “We Grown Now,” two young boys charm audiences with their innocence and vulnerability. Set in 1992 in the Cabrini-Green public housing development in Chicago, the film follows the lives of Malik and Eric, two 10-year-old best friends who navigate the challenges of their surroundings.
Malik, portrayed by Blake Cameron James, is a dreamy child with a loving family, including his mother, grandmother, and sister. On the other hand, Eric, played by Gian Knight Ramirez, lives with his older sister and father, who is a source of both praise and disappointment. The friendship between the boys is portrayed authentically, drawing viewers into their world as they explore Cabrini-Green and escape their routine by visiting the Art Institute of Chicago.
As the boys wander through the museum, they pause before a striking painting that sparks a connection to Malik’s family history in Mississippi. This moment, like many in the film, blends beauty with weighty themes, creating a delicate balance between childhood wonder and harsh realities. Director Minhal Baig’s ability to create sympathetic characters shines through, as viewers become invested in Malik and Eric’s journey.
However, the film is not without its challenges, as the intrusion of real-world violence disrupts the boys’ idyllic bubble. A police raid on the complex forces Malik to confront the harsh realities of his environment, leading to a crisis that threatens to upend his life. While these moments add dramatic tension, some of Baig’s filmmaking choices, such as the cinematography and score, at times overwhelm the story’s delicate realism.
“We Grown Now” is a poignant exploration of childhood innocence and vulnerability in the face of adversity. With heartfelt performances from the young actors and a nostalgic backdrop, the film invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment. Rated PG for images of police violence, the film runs for 1 hour and 33 minutes in theaters.
