BBC One is set to broadcast a romantic drama with ‘major Bonnie and Clyde vibes’ tonight (August 16), and it’s definitely one to include in your weekend film binge.
Released in 2019, Queen and Slim features Oscar-winning Daniel Kaluuya and fellow British actor Jodie Turner-Smith.
The film marked Grammy Award winner Melina Matsoukas’s first venture into directing, having honed her craft through music video work.
Audiences follow defence lawyer Queen (Turner-Smith) and her Tinder date Slim (Kaluuya) as they sit through an uncomfortable dinner.
When the duo head home, a policeman pulls them over for a minor traffic infringement. However, the standard check intensifies when the officer draws his gun and Slim steals it, ultimately shooting the officer in self-defence, reports the Mirror.
Slim’s crime is recorded on camera, forcing the couple to flee from authorities.
The fugitives quickly transform into revolutionary icons, motivating African American communities to protest against police violence. Law enforcement corruption, alongside additional themes examining race relations across America, are woven throughout the narrative.
Following its premiere, Queen and Slim secured a Certified Fresh 82% Rotten Tomatoes rating, with viewers awarding it an exceptional 92%.
Reviewers on the film-scoring platform were impressed by the narrative’s depth. Their consensus states: “Stylish, provocative, and powerful, Queen and Slim tells a gripping fugitive story steeped in timely, thoughtful subtext.”
Ordinary cinema-goers were equally captivated, with one declaring: “A phenomenal film from start to finish. The story feels real something like this could definitely happen in real life. It gives off major Bonnie and Clyde vibes!”
Another added: “I love this movie; it such a heartfelt movie that made me cry at the ending. Romantic, good old jams, passionate and stylish, a must see!”
“A masterpiece. Well shot, great acting, great storyline. Just a hidden gem. Pure entertainment. Pure meaning,” commented a third.
Meanwhile, a fourth admirer enthused: “Soo poignantly representing the struggles that African Americans face…. Daniel K. how much more outstanding can you be!”
And a final audience member remarked: “The atmosphere of this film combined with the cast’s amazing performances make for one of the most entertaining films of 2019.”
Queen and Slim airs on BBC One on Saturday, August 16 at midnight