Cru

I met the writer "accidentally" at the ABFF in New York City and he invited me to preview Cru. Oliver Ottley is both a gracious individual and a talented writer.

His writing has some memorable lines that I still quote -- and the director beautifully visualizes the writer's intentions on film. Weaving appropriate music (watch for a lead actor with a gorgeous voice) and flashbacks allows the composing team to tell a beautiful, sometimes joyful, sometimes humorous, and sometimes bittersweet story of an unusual reunion of four basketball players years later.

I understand that Cru captured most awards at the ABFF -- and well-deserved from this writer's perspective. The post-conference (after the screening) allowed me the opportunity to hear the cast members answer questions and reflect on the craftsmanship.

Please do not miss this movie -- it is fabulous!

It's refreshing to watch a film where the story touches a heavy subject in such a light manner. Friendship, brotherhood & redemption, and how much this actually shapes a man's life, usually is portrayed in a war or other kind of extreme situations in Hollywood movies. But in Cru, four ordinary guys leading ordinary lives (it could happen to any of us) pulls us into its ups and downs and its surprises, laughing and crying throughout the film. Cru gives us a window into African American society and its cultural problems while still being relevant to anyone.

We usually form a life-long friendships at school, a special kind of bond that we might never find again later in our adult life. And we grow apart because of success, wealth, love jealousy or grudge on a past mistakes all too often. But in the end, we are who we are because of whom we were with in a crucial moment of our life.

Very well written story plus great acting and wonderful chemistry among the four friends. A very enjoyable ride.

By the end the movie there was not a dry eye in the screening room at the Bronze Metal Film Festival. I'm not sure if it was from the story line or our overwhelming pride of Oliver. Seeing his and Alton dream become reality.

From the opening credits to the closing credits this movie captured my attention. The story line was dramatically realistic. The chemistry of the actors drew you into the movie making you feel like you knew them personally. The music throughout the movie was outstanding. This was a life changing movie for me personally. I forced me to evaluate life and the people in my life and cherish each moment.

I am extremely proud to call Oliver W. Ottley III one of my dearest friends. He put his heart, soul and personality into this film. I congratulate him as well has Alton Glass on a job well done. I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future. This is a movie you don't want to miss.

This movie has such great meaning. Must see to appreciate!!!!!! I've seen it several times and told my family and friends about it!!!! Tear jerker close to end....

The Cru storyline is easy to follow and identify with. The acting is excellent, and the emotional intensity of each scene was palpable. I gave the film a solid A-. It touches on the issue of teenage driving under the influence without being cliché or preachy. There's bound to be a situation or character in this film that each viewer can identify with. The film is really about the effect that one decision or a single moment can have on the rest of your life. Definitely going to pull at a few heartstrings. Several of the film's themes will resonate with the audience. The score for the film is excellent as well. I was impressed with the music and appropriateness of some of the selections. The photography and editing of Cru adds to the intensity of certain scenes and enhance the viewing experience. Overall I enjoyed watching a film featuring Black actors that was about everyday issues of the human experience. It's not just a story of perpetuating stereotypes. I look forward to this film becoming a classic among multiple film enthusiasts worldwide.