Strive

My favorite genre is the coming of age stories, and this one was a pleasant surprise. The lead actress, Joi Starr, did a fantastic job. I thought the film was shot well in New York City, and explored a lot of the dynamics that teens face as they transition from youth to adulthood. There were a few clichés, but nothing that is worth complaining about.

After reading the credits, I read that there was a San Francisco unit. I'm curious what part of the movie was shot for San Francisco. Other than that, I would have expanded the mother's role, a little bit more, and blended a few of Kalani's friends characters into one. You never felt throughout this movie that she would not be able to accomplish her dreams, because nothing directly Affected her. Other than that, Bravo to the cast and crew for this independent gem.

This really is a great inspirational movie when the odds are stacked against you. The acting from all the cast is of a very high standard, especially from the main actor Joi Starr. I am personally at a time in my life where I am moving in a new direction of career change and study at college and going through a very difficult time of dealing with some health challenges, and it would be so easy to just give up on my studies and say, what the heck. But this movie has inspired me to continue on. I am still dealing with the health issues, which hopefully will come right soon. Thank you to the independent filmmaker for making this film.