I just saw this movie, which had a brief run at a theater in Harlem and was a NY Times Critic's Pick. The lead actor co-wrote the screenplay with the director. It's a sophisticated film that was made on location in Harlem, with a focus on the difficulties of life after prison for someone trying to stay out of trouble and also ties of friendship and family in a longstanding and complex community. The lead character, out on parole, is given a job delivering food to shut-ins, many living in public housing, a device that places him in a number of situations that advance plot and character revelation. Each character the film is deeply individual and they illuminate different aspects of the protagonist's life. I hope Chapter and Verse becomes more widely known, at least through streaming.
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swilde-813579 February 2017
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ladymagyver4 December 2015This film introduces the struggles of men released today (2015) from prison, while showing the humor and compassion these men possess. It does communicate the hard choices some men are willing to make that labels them as unable to be rehabilitated, from society. The struggle of the man from the streets, not the race, this movie does a great job presenting the issue to the viewer. Most times we understand the phrase; "Scared Straight" as a direct way to change a persons self destructive behavior. This movie; "Chapter & Verse" puts this term on its head, when a man is willing to make the hard choices. After viewing the movie come back and reread this review.
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barry-935996 June 2017Excellent film. Acting is real and raw and the theme is a positive one. This is a film that causes pause and thought. One person, regardless of their circumstances can change the world, even if it's simply in their neighborhood or for one other person. I highly recommend this film. Hollywood is often filled with formulaic content and this is a notable exception.
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domnyc9 February 2017I just saw the film, and it's one of the best I've seen in a long time. It's a very authentic and emotionally intelligent portrait of not only Harlem, but the criminal justice system across the United States. It's an incredibly important film everyone should watch. Today more than ever... The film was produced in Harlem, with many actors out of the local community, with proceeds directly benefiting local businesses - a wonderful and admirable way of giving back to the location where the story takes place. The performances of the main characters are stellar - I was extremely impressed. If I'd recommend any movie this year, this one is likely to be at the top of the list.
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This film shows a powerful story of a man's daily struggle to survive and the ultimate choice he has to make to protect the next generation. He makes peace with so many parts of his life that he lost when he went to prison. I didn't anticipate the ending at all. Wow.
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cjwilkinson-8180820 August 2019Draw your own conclusions - I'll pass on this one.