Review of Blindspotting (2018) by Cole W — 03 Dec 2018

A poignant look inward at our society.

Blindspotting (2018) is a refreshing perspective on police brutality, criminal justice reform, gentrification of black communities, poverty, reform, and the criminal mindset. It is paced at a chill speed with a very laid back approach. I loved the very clever and modern writing style of writers Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal. Their dialogue flows naturally and feels genuine and thoughtful. They take on all the aforementioned issues with biting satire and irreverence. I could not stop laughing throughout Blindspotting's brief running time.

I must mention the killer acting performances from Daveed Diggs as Collin and Rafael Casal as Miles, respectively. Diggs portrays the contemporary black man struggling to find his identity while finding love, juggling friendship, loyalty, and work alongside his probationary period. It's a complex and fascinating role that Diggs brings a likable realism to the role. He is just outstanding. Similarly, I loved Rafael Casal as Miles. His hectic wild Oakland firebrand personality is not only hilarious, but frightening. His mental and emotional breakdown was a shining light of self-awareness I was not prepared for, honestly. Blindspotting features two excellent, convincing, leading acting performances.

I really appreciated hearing actual West coast hip hop as the soundtrack and score for Blindspotting. From the modern trap pounding to the West coast bounce of G-Funk, every song felt in place and appropriate. The thunderous roar of the rap free-styling was a breath of fresh air as well.

Lastly, the direction from Carlos Lopez Estrada brings a hammer to the face style. His quick edits next to wild dream sequences, long panning shots of the characters walking down the street, or bold close up shots were really effective and moving in Blindspotting. Estrada managed to bring this relevant and touchy story with a sensitivity and thoroughness that feels heartfelt. I look forward to more creative filmmaking from Estrada in the future!

In short, check out Blindspotting. The humor will make you cry laughing, while the dramatic moments with chill you to the bone, and the scary sequences will leave a massive impression on you. Blindspotting is simply some of the finest filmmaking 2018 has to offer.