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.