In a world where violence against Black communities has been ingrained in history and culture, the question arises – how does one channel the anger and exhaustion born from cycles of mourning? Writer and director Bomani J. Story attempts to tackle this question in his debut feature, “The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster,” a gripping Afro-surrealist sci-fi escapade that delves into generational trauma and the desire to overcome it.
The film centers around Vicaria (Laya DeLeon Hayes), a brilliant teenager with a passion for science. Devastated by the gang violence that claims her older brother Chris’ (Edem Atsu-Swanzy) life, she becomes obsessed with the idea of defying death itself. In a bold and audacious experiment, she manages to bring her brother back to life, but what returns is not the brother she once knew. Chris is now a shell of his former self, a monster created by Vicaria’s desperate attempt to escape her grief.
“The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster” draws inspiration from Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” reimagining and modernizing the concept of the tragic monster. While Chris’ death sets the story in motion, the film delves much deeper into the themes of generational trauma and its profound impact on the community. Vicaria’s poignant recounting of her mother’s death by street violence emphasizes the profound impact of death on her family and the community as a whole.
The film portrays a full and authentic portrait of the community, showcasing both its grit and love. Vicaria’s relationship with her father becomes the emotional core of the film, reflecting their shared grief and determination to survive. Her bond with Aisha (Reilly Brooke Stith), Chris’ grieving girlfriend, adds depth and humor to the story. Even the local gangbangers, portrayed by Denzel Whitaker and Keith Holliday, are given multi-dimensional roles, avoiding the trap of one-dimensional antagonists.
At the heart of the film is the remarkable performance of Laya DeLeon Hayes, who excels as Vicaria. She effortlessly transitions between a scientific prodigy and a grieving sister, displaying a range of emotions that grip the audience from start to finish.
“The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster” also brings nostalgic fun with its mad scientist aesthetic, weaving in CG lightning bolts, neon lighting, and an electrifying score. Despite its tight runtime, the film successfully navigates through the microcosm of culture within the community, offering shivering gore and characters that leave a lasting impact.
While the script occasionally struggles with an overload of supporting scenarios, it gracefully handles nuanced topics such as the relationship between underserved communities and drug abuse. Though the film occasionally veers towards explaining itself, it ultimately regains its edge.
The true brilliance of the film lies in its subversion of expectations. Chris’ reincarnation as a faceless, hooded Black man challenges cultural stereotypes and forces society to confront its irrational fears. His presence serves as a symbolic reflection of the repercussions of disenfranchisement, highlighting the true monster that haunts Vicaria – the cycle of violence and despair.
“The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster” is a soulful cry for control, masterfully weaving together themes of grief, identity, and empowerment. With its thought-provoking narrative and powerful performances, the film serves as a poignant exploration of trauma, healing, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit.
Now playing in theaters and available on demand, “The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster” is an Afro-surrealist masterpiece that demands to be seen and heard.
