Nickel Boys (2024) by RaMell Ross

“Nickel Boys” is a 2024 historical drama film directed by RaMell Ross, based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 2019 novel of the same name. The film delves into the harrowing experiences of Black students at a reform school in Florida during the 1960s, exposing the brutal realities of racial injustice and abuse.

Set in the 1960s during the Civil Rights era, “Nickel Boys” tells the story of Elwood Curtis (Ethan Herisse), a young Black boy growing up in Tallahassee, Florida, who is unjustly sent to Nickel Academy, a reform school. Inspired by the ideals of the Civil Rights movement, Elwood hopes to overcome racial prejudice and make something of his life. At Nickel Academy, he encounters horrific abuse and corruption at the hands of the school’s administrators. There, he befriends Turner (Brandon Wilson), another boy who is more cynical and focused on survival. The film follows Elwood and Turner as they navigate the brutal realities of Nickel Academy, enduring physical and sexual abuse, and fighting to maintain their dignity and hope amidst despair. The story is a poignant exploration of their friendship and resilience in the face of systemic racism and cruelty. The film also touches upon Elwood’s life after Nickel, running a moving firm in New York and reflecting on the unmarked graves of boys who died at the school.

RaMell Ross, known for his Oscar-nominated documentary “Hale County This Morning, This Evening,” makes his narrative feature debut with “Nickel Boys.” His vision for the film is deeply rooted in creating a visceral and immersive experience for the audience, aiming to convey the subjective reality of the characters. Ross emphasizes a “Black subjectivity” in his filmmaking, seeking to use the camera as a tool to express a perspective free from a “white gaze.” He employed a unique first-person point-of-view shooting style, filming scenes from Elwood’s perspective and then Turner’s separately, to draw viewers into the minds of the two main characters and evoke empathy beyond mere sympathy. Ross’s direction focuses on capturing the “epic banal,” highlighting both the beauty and brutality of life, and celebrating the resilience and “life force” of the characters amidst trauma. He aims to create an experience that is deeply felt rather than simply observed, hoping to inspire reflection and change in the audience.

• Racial Injustice and Systemic Racism: The film directly confronts the brutal realities of racial discrimination and the systemic abuse prevalent during the Jim Crow South era.

• Abuse and Trauma: “Nickel Boys” unflinchingly depicts the physical, sexual, and emotional abuse inflicted upon children at reform schools, highlighting the lasting trauma on survivors.

• Resilience and Hope: Despite the horrific setting, the film emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring hope for dignity and justice in the face of adversity.

• Friendship and Brotherhood: The bond between Elwood and Turner is central, showcasing the power of friendship as a means of survival and emotional support in inhumane conditions.

• Memory and Erasure: The film addresses the importance of remembering historical injustices and confronting attempts to erase or ignore painful truths. It celebrates the memory of the boys who suffered at the Dozier School and aims to ensure their stories are not forgotten.

• Identity and Selfhood: Elwood’s journey is about maintaining his sense of self and ideals in an environment designed to strip him of both.

• Powerful Source Material:  Adapting Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel provides a strong narrative foundation with significant critical acclaim and emotional depth.

• Innovative Directorial Approach: RaMell Ross’s unique first-person perspective and focus on “Black subjectivity” create a distinctive and immersive cinematic experience.

• Visceral and Immersive Storytelling: The film effectively conveys the harsh realities of Nickel Academy, creating a lasting emotional impact on viewers.

• Strong Performances: Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson deliver compelling performances as Elwood and Turner, supported by a talented cast including Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor and Daveed Diggs.

• Timely and Relevant Themes: The film’s exploration of racial injustice and systemic abuse resonates deeply with contemporary social and political conversations.

“Nickel Boys” (2024) is a historical drama directed by RaMell Ross, adapted from Colson Whitehead’s novel. It portrays the harrowing experiences of two Black teenagers at a brutal reform school in 1960s Florida, highlighting themes of racism, abuse, resilience, and friendship.

“Nickel Boys” has received significant recognition, including:

• American Film Institute: Top 10 Films of 2024

• Independent Spirit Awards (40th): Best Cinematography (Won – Jomo Fray)

• Gotham Awards 2024: Best Director (Won – RaMell Ross), Breakthrough Performer (Won – Brandon Wilson), Best Feature (Nominated)

• New York Film Critics Circle Awards: Best Director (Won – RaMell Ross), Best Cinematography (Won – Jomo Fray)

• Winter IndieWire Honors: Auteur Award (Won – RaMell Ross)

• Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards: Cinematography (Won – Jomo Fray), Editing (Won – Nicholas Monsour)

• Boston Society of Film Critics: Best Adapted Screenplay (Won – RaMell Ross and Joslyn Barnes)

• Stockholm International Film Festival: Bronze Horse (Won – Nickel Boys)

• Middleburg Film Festival: Special Achievement in Filmmaking Award (Honored – RaMell Ross)

• Chicago International Film Festival: Vanguard Award (Honored – RaMell Ross)

• Denver International Film Festival: Excellence in Directing Award (Honored – RaMell Ross)

• Golden Globe Awards (82nd): Best Motion Picture – Drama (Nominated)

• Academy Awards (97th): Best Adapted Screenplay (Nominated – RaMell Ross and Joslyn Barnes)

“Nickel Boys” has received widespread critical acclaim, praised for its powerful storytelling, innovative direction, and impactful performances. Critics have lauded RaMell Ross’s bold and expressionistic approach, noting the film’s ability to immerse viewers in the characters’ experiences and evoke deep emotional responses. Manohla Dargis of The New York Times called it “boldly expressionistic” and “a stunning achievement.” Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian described it as “tough, disillusioned, brilliant.” The film is frequently highlighted for its unflinching portrayal of historical reality and the weight of trauma, avoiding sentimentality while celebrating resilience and hope. Some reviews point out that while visually unique, the film’s emotional depth and meaningful story compensate for any perceived imperfections. Overall, critics consider “Nickel Boys” a significant and moving cinematic achievement, marking a powerful narrative debut for RaMell Ross.

“Nickel Boys” had a limited theatrical release and, as of February 2025, has a gross worldwide box office of approximately $2.8 million against a budget of $23.2 million. The film’s box office performance is modest, which is common for independent dramas focused on serious social issues. Its primary impact is expected to be through critical acclaim, awards recognition, and viewership on streaming platforms.

Reviews from major cinema sites like Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, and others are overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the critical acclaim. Search for “Nickel Boys movie reviews” on Google Search to find aggregated scores and reviews from various cinema sites as they become more widely available.

“Nickel Boys” is an American production by Orion Pictures, Plan B Entertainment, Anonymous Content, and Louverture Films. RaMell Ross directed and co-wrote the screenplay with Joslyn Barnes. Filming took place in Louisiana in late 2022, utilizing locations in New Orleans, Hammond, and LaPlace to stand in for Florida settings. The film is noted for its unique first-person point-of-view cinematography by Jomo Fray and editing by Nicholas Monsour. The score is composed by Alex Somers and Scott Alario. Colson Whitehead served as an executive producer, ensuring fidelity to the source material.

• Orion Pictures

• Plan B Entertainment

• Anonymous Content

• Louverture Films

Amazon MGM Studios distributed “Nickel Boys” for its theatrical release in the United States. Mister Smith Entertainment may handle international sales, although specific details require further verification.

Check film industry news and distributor websites for confirmed international distribution details as they emerge.

“Nickel Boys” is highly recommended for viewers who appreciate:

• Powerful and Meaningful Dramas: Films that tackle important social issues with depth and emotional resonance.

• Adaptations of Literary Works:  Movies based on acclaimed novels, especially those that handle the source material with sensitivity and artistic vision.

• Independent and Art House Cinema: Films that prioritize artistic expression and nuanced storytelling over mainstream conventions.

• Films about American History and Race: Movies that confront difficult chapters of American history, particularly regarding racial injustice and the Civil Rights era.

• Director RaMell Ross’s Work:  Audiences who were moved by Ross’s documentary “Hale County This Morning, This Evening” and are interested in his narrative filmmaking debut

• Important and Timely Story:  “Nickel Boys” brings to light a crucial and often overlooked aspect of American history, prompting reflection on racial injustice and its lasting impact.

• Visceral and Immersive Experience: RaMell Ross’s direction creates a uniquely powerful and emotionally engaging cinematic journey.

• Critically Acclaimed and Award-Winning:  The film has garnered significant critical praise and numerous awards, recognizing its artistic and social value.

• Exceptional Performances: The cast delivers outstanding performances, particularly Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson as the central characters.

• Thought-Provoking and Memorable: “Nickel Boys” is a film that will stay with you long after viewing, prompting reflection and conversation about its important themes.

“Nickel Boys” is a masterful and essential film that delivers a harrowing yet ultimately hopeful story of resilience and friendship in the face of profound injustice. RaMell Ross’s directorial vision, combined with powerful performances and a deeply moving narrative, makes “Nickel Boys” a significant cinematic achievement. It is a must-watch film for those seeking thought-provoking and emotionally resonant stories that confront important social issues with artistry and sensitivity. Despite its limited box office release, its critical acclaim and availability on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video ensure that “Nickel Boys” will reach a wide audience and leave a lasting impact.