Love, Brooklyn: Strong Performances from Holland, Beharie & Wise

Love, Brooklyn

Director

Rachael Abigail Holder

Screenwriter

Paul Zimmerman

Producers

André Holland, Kate Sharp, Patrick Wengler, Maurice Anderson, Liza Zusman

Executive Producers

Steven Soderbergh, Jeffrey Deary, Andy Steinman, Brian Katz, Thomas Zambeck, Alexander Leff, Rachael Abigail Holder

Principal Cast

André Holland, Nicole Beharie, DeWanda Wise, Roy Wood Jr., Cassandra Freeman, Cadence Reese

Runtime: 1hr 37mins

Synopsis: Rachael Abigail Holder’s Love, Brooklyn isn’t just a love letter to the borough; it’s a nuanced exploration of modern relationships, personal growth, and the ever-changing landscape of a beloved city. This isn’t your typical rom-com; it’s a layered, later-in-life coming-of-age story that resonates with honesty and heart.

Introduction: A Personal Connection

Watching Love, Brooklyn virtually during Sundance 2025 was a treat. As a single Black man, I found myself deeply connecting with the film’s exploration of love, healing, and self-understanding. The familiar adage “hurt people hurt people” rings true here, echoing the complexities of the characters’ journeys. Love, Brooklyn mirrors life, showcasing the messy realities of relationships and the importance of self-awareness.

Roger’s Dilemma: Writing and Relationships

André Holland delivers a compelling performance as Roger, a writer struggling with his next piece and his love life. He’s caught in a love triangle, navigating a casual relationship with Nicole (DeWanda Wise), who desires more than a hookup, and a close bond with his ex, Casey (Nicole Beharie), that blurs the lines of friendship and romance. Roger’s uncertainty about his writing mirrors his indecision in matters of the heart. He knows what he wants in a relationship, but he’s less clear on who he wants to be with. Holland masterfully portrays this troubled man, grappling with vulnerability despite having the world seemingly at his fingertips. This marks another powerful performance from Holland, following his underrated role in Exhibiting Forgiveness, further solidifying his status as one of my favorite actors for his thoughtful film choices.

Nicole: Strength and Resilience

Wise is equally captivating as Nicole, a loving single mother who sees Roger’s potential for deeper connection but is unsure if he’s ready to commit. She embodies the strength and resilience of a woman juggling career aspirations as a massage therapist with the responsibilities of motherhood. Nicole represents the kind of woman who challenges men to rise to the occasion, the “one that got away” as some wiser voices might say. Wise’s performance is so down-to-earth and compelling that you can’t help but root for her.

Casey: Free-Spirited and Charming

Beharie shines as Casey, a free-spirited and charming woman. She embodies the kind of openness and genuine connection we all crave in a partner, particularly in those unguarded moments, like Casey and Roger’s playful antics in the art gallery, where they’re blissfully unconcerned with appearances. Their easygoing chemistry makes their past relationship and subsequent friendship entirely believable. Beharie’s performance is adorable and captivating, capturing an increasingly rare quality: a strong connection to her heritage and a fierce determination to preserve her family’s legacy. Viewers may draw a parallel between Casey’s refusal to give up on her art gallery in the face of gentrification and her bond with Roger.

Modern Dating: A Refreshing Departure

The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of responsible, educated adults navigating the complexities of modern dating. All three leads are aware of the situation, a refreshing departure from typical rom-com tropes. While the pacing is deliberate, it allows the audience to become invested in the characters’ lives and understand their motivations. Even if you’re rooting for a particular couple, the outcome feels organic and believable.

Cinematography and Visual Motifs

The cinematography is noteworthy, with beautiful visuals that capture the essence of Brooklyn. Cinephiles will appreciate the attention to detail, from the characters’ costumes to the carefully curated interiors. One fascinating visual motif involves Roger’s best friend, Alan (Roy Wood Jr.), whose shifting positions in a café scene hint at his own marital struggles. Wood delivers his usual comedic charm, adding another layer to the film’s exploration of relationships. The director effectively utilizes the scenic beauty of Brooklyn, showcasing the city’s diverse neighborhoods and vibrant atmosphere.

Sound and Music

The score is used sparingly, allowing the diegetic sound to create a more immersive experience. The strategic placement of Leon Thomas’s “Breaking Point” during a climactic moment adds emotional depth to the scene. I won’t blame you for putting the song on repeat after reading this and watching the movie. 

Final Thoughts: A Must-See

Love, Brooklyn is a well-crafted film with exceptional acting, creative storytelling, and insightful dialogue. It explores the challenges of responsible adulting and dating with honesty and humor. It’s a film that will spark conversations about relationships, self-healing, and the complexities of modern love. Highly recommended for a night out with friends, a date, or even a group discussion about the intricacies of navigating life and love. I give it a 7/10.