#TIFF22: “ON THE COME UP”

By Amanda Gilmore

This Debut Feature from Sanaa Lathan is based on the novel by Angie Thomas of the same name. It takes place in Garden Heights and follows 16-year-old Bri (Jamila C. Gray) who dreams of becoming one of the greatest rappers of all time.

Unlike other films about aspiring musicians, this one tells the story through the eyes of a teenager. It’s a refreshing lens to see this world through. We are able to see how a teenager struggles with the pressures of providing for her family, how she deals with preconceived judgements against her family, and how she navigates the racist high school she attends.

On The Come Up is an inspiring story for young and adult audience members. It resonates with both due to the universal themes it conveys. It’s about attaining your dream while discovering your identity and living your true self. Bri gets caught up in trying to provide for her family that she turns into someone she isn’t to make money. It’s a cautionary tale for youth while being one that many adults can relate to.

The highlights of On The Come Up happen when Bri is in the rap battle ring. Watching her come up with rhymes at the moment and battling them out for the audience is a delight. These moments are matched with touching scenes between Bri and her mother Jay (Lathan). Their history is complex and Gray and Lathan gives strong performances.

On The Come Up screens as follows at TIFF ’22:

Thu, Sep 8 IN-PERSON at Visa Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre at 9:30 pm

Fri, Sep 9 IN-PERSON at TIFF Bell Lightbox at 2:00 pm

Thu, Sep 15 IN-PERSON at TIFF Bell Lightbox at 2:45 pm

Sun, Sep 18 IN-PERSON at TIFF Bell Lightbox at 12:30 pm