Best friends CJ and Sebastian build a pair of time machines and use them in order to save the life of CJ’s brother.
Best friends Claudette (Eden Duncan-Smith) and Sebastian (Dante Crichlow) spend all of their time trying to perfect their invention of time machine packs for their school science expo, in attempt to gain scholarships from the top colleges. The machines have the ability to take you only as far as yesterday and after many failed attempts they finally work, going back only to relive everything that happened the day before.
Their lives change forever when a local store is robbed and Claudette’s brother Calvin (Astro), who is her protector and father figure, is shot by the police, mistaken as one of the robbers. Since that incident, Claudette is determined to go back and save her brother from the shooting. Every time Claudette and Sebastian return to alter the events, unexpected circumstances occur that changes their lives permanently.
This was, without a doubt, one of my favorite films of the festival. This is director Stefon Bristol’s second film, produced by his mentor, director Spike Lee. I loved so many things about it but what stood out for me was that fact that it presented so many important issues that need to be seen more on the big screen such as, intelligent, educated black youths who are making a difference in the world and not portrayed as thugs hanging out on the corner selling drugs. The representation of supportive families and communities is very important also, I thought the film did a great job in representing this. Also, I’m happy Stefon brought in the police brutality issue, which is something the black community has always and are still dealing with.
The cast was perfect! I love the friendship dynamic between Claudette and Sebastian. They are more than friends, they are family and they get through very tough times and still love and support each other. The relationships between Claudette and her brother Calvin is one of my favorites because even though Calvin is older, he looks up to his sister who is smart and ambitious; and he protects her with his life. What I thought was important was that she doesn’t look down on him but encourages him to do better and I think that is something we need to see more of. I also want to mention that I absolutely love actor Astro in this film. I saw him in a film called “Luce” and I can’t wait to see where his career goes, I think he is just amazing to watch.
This film was powerful and emotional and I love how it touched on so many issues but still kept a solid pace and rhythm. I loved the essence of Spike Lee, the influence was prominent and I appreciated it very much. I’m excited to see more from this director. Well done!
“See You Yesterday” recently premiered at the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival
