Beats (2019 American film)

Beats

Company type	Film
Industry	Film industry
Founded	2019 (2019)
Founder	Chris Robinson (director), Miles Orion Feldsott (writer)
Headquarters	Chicago , United States
Products	Film
Website	www.netflix.com/title/81014090

Beats is a 2019 American drama centered on coming-of-age themes, directed by Chris Robinson and penned by Miles Orion Feldsott. The cast includes Anthony Anderson, Khalil Everage, Uzo Aduba, among others. The narrative follows a withdrawn teenage musical genius who unexpectedly teams up with a producer facing challenges. United through their passion for hip-hop, they strive to confront their histories and establish themselves within Chicago’s music industry. The film debuted on Netflix on June 19, 2019, garnering generally favorable reviews from critics.

Plot

Set in Chicago, the story begins with Carla Monroe, a single mother whose daughter Kari is tragically killed in a shooting while looking for her brother August. A year and a half later, August battles PTSD and anxiety, retreating from the outside world as Carla remains protective while working. He harbors feelings for Niyah and observes his friend Laz’s involvement in drug trafficking.

Facing staff reductions due to declining attendance, school principal Vanessa hires her soon-to-be ex-husband Romelo as a security guard to address truancy, focusing particularly on August. Though Romelo initially startles August, they soon develop a friendship; Romelo sees a chance to revive his own hip-hop ambitions through August’s talent. Together, they embark on creating music.

Romelo motivates August to seek inspiration for his lyrics. August composes a song dedicated to Niyah, which Romelo promotes via his former industry connections. The track is performed by Queen Cabrini at a neighborhood party to enthusiastic acclaim. When August goes missing, Carla contacts law enforcement, resulting in Romelo’s arrest.

Plagued by guilt over his sister’s death and feeling like a burden to his mother, August destroys his musical equipment and flees. Romelo confesses that he was exploiting August but encourages him not to shoulder blame alone. They reconcile, and August returns to school where Vanessa and Niyah welcome him as he pursues both academic goals and his musical aspirations.

Production

Announced in June 2018, Beats was directed by Chris Robinson from an original script by Miles Orion Feldsott, starring Anthony Anderson alongside newcomer Khalil Everage. The soundtrack features original compositions from Chicago-based musicians, including Young Chop. Mercedes Cook handled costume design. Filming commenced in June 2018 in Chicago.

Release

The film was released on the streaming service Netflix on June 19, 2019.

Reception

On Rotten Tomatoes, Beats holds an approval rating based on multiple reviews, with an average score reflecting generally positive feedback. Critics highlighted Anthony Anderson’s performance and described the film as an engaging coming-of-age tale despite its familiar subject matter.