February 12, 2025
Movie Review
The must-see film "Nickel Boys" underscores the devastating effects of racist youth detentions in America, where young Black teenagers were exploited as forced labor during the Civil Rights Movement. Many Black youths held at the facility likely fell victim to racist police and an unethical White supremacist warden. Although some staff members were Black, akin to today's mass incarceration crisis of Black citizens, they offered little assistance, protest, or support. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2qZ429rUZw
"Nickel Boys" by Colson Whitehead is a compelling novel set in the 1960s, inspired by the real-life Dozier School for Boys in Florida. The narrative follows two African American teenagers, Elwood Curtis and Turner, who are sentenced to a reform school called Nickel Academy for minor infractions. Elwood is an idealistic young man who believes in the power of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s teachings, while Turner is more cynical, aware of the harsh realities and injustices they encounter.
As they endure the brutal conditions of the school, rife with abuse and corruption, the boys form a deep bond while witnessing the systemic racism and violence that permeates their environment. Elwood's determination to uphold his principles clashes with the harsh realities surrounding them, leading to pivotal moments that test their beliefs and resilience.
The novel delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the impact of institutional racism, ultimately reflecting on the lasting effects of the past. Whitehead's storytelling merges historical context with profound emotional depth, making "Nickel Boys" a poignant commentary on the struggle for justice and humanity.
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