A reclusive teenage musical prodigy forms an unlikely friendship with a down-on-his-luck high school security guard. United by their mutual love of hip hop, they confront the demons of their past and try to break into Chicago’s music scene.

This movie leans into the hip hop world, so maybe Noise Pollution isn’t the perfect forum for this review, but it’s a good film, so give it a shot.

Hip hop elements aside, Beats is a dramatic look at human beings and overcoming personal tragedy.  Written by Miles Orion Feldscott, in his first cinematic outing, the script is incredibly well written.  Occasionally a movie can give too much to an irrelevant character, but here, everything and everyone has a purpose.

The cast is exceptional as well.  Khalil Everage (from the awesome Cobra Kai series) makes his feature length debut here in this Netflix original, and I would say he has a bright future.  Also featured are Anthony Anderson and Uzo Aduba, who both put in great dramatic turns.

As for the music, it might not be for everyone, but it is an important part of the story – it’s also not over used, so you don’t have to be a fan to appreciate its inclusion.

My only negative take away, is that of the abrupt ending.  The pace of the movie is fine nearly all the way through – then it gallops toward an ending that felt a little rushed, but it does work.

Beats is a heartwarming watch, and I recommend that you give it a go.

8/10

Review by Rick Trewin