Writer-director Minhal Baig has a knack for delicately capturing the rhythms of youth, as evidenced by her 2019 film 'Hala.' Baig's approach to coming-of-age stories is textured and refreshingly unfussy, focusing on intimate moments rather than explosive ones. Her latest film, 'We Grown Now,' continues this trend with a thoughtful and serenely paced narrative set in Chicago.
The film follows the childhood friendship between Malik and Eric, played by Blake Cameron James and Gian Knight Ramirez, as they navigate the challenges of growing up in the fall of 1992. Living in the Cabrini-Green housing project, the boys find solace in their friendship amidst a turbulent environment marked by violence and injustice.
Baig skillfully avoids falling into a trap of bleakness, instead highlighting the innocence and resilience of the young protagonists. The film paints a vivid picture of Malik's loving family life and the vibrant neighborhood they inhabit, juxtaposed with the harsh realities they face.
A pivotal moment in the film occurs when Malik's mother, Dolores, contemplates a job promotion that would require them to leave Chicago. This decision forces Malik and Eric to confront the possibility of separation, leading to a poignant exploration of loyalty and change.
Through Baig's sensitive direction and Jay Wadley's evocative score, 'We Grown Now' resonates with authenticity and heart, offering a poignant reflection on friendship, resilience, and the bittersweet passage of time.
