'Sleight' A Review

Sleight is a drama about a young street magician Bo(Jacob Latimore) who moonlights as a drug dealer to provide for his young sister after their mother passes. After meeting Holly(Seychelle Gabriel) Bo decides to cut his latest batch in order to make enough money to get out. He's discovered by his boss Angelo(Dulé Hill) who demands a high price for his betrayal.

The film is perfectly cast, fresh and interesting. Latimore does well in his first leading role, Hill clearly relishes the opportunity to play against type as the heavy, Gabriel as the love interest does well within the limited confines of the script. Also notable are Sasheer Zamata and Cameron Esposito in supporting roles which are both essentially dramatic, great to see the two of them play roles that aren't straight comedy.

The magic done by Bo is well done, the effects most clearly practical are compelling and it builds to a satisfyingly explosive climax. Visually the film is interesting with some nice flourishes, the score is decent if relatively undistinguished however the biggest problem is the script. Although built on a good idea and a great cast the plot is obvious and predictable, an amalgam of many other stories, with some scenes and dialogue confounding if not outright cringe worthy. Even so it displays an exciting potential and bodes well for writer/director JD Dillard's future work.

A rough script somewhat balanced by a strong concept and cast.

Rent It.