See You Yesterday (2019) Movie Review: A Thought-Provoking Sci-Fi Drama
Introduction
“See You Yesterday,” directed by Stefon Bristol and produced by Spike Lee, is a 2019 sci-fi drama that combines elements of time travel with a powerful social message. Starring Eden Duncan-Smith, Dante Crichlow, and Astro, the film explores themes of friendship, loss, and social justice through the lens of speculative fiction. With its unique premise and poignant narrative, “See You Yesterday” offers a fresh and compelling take on the genre.
Plot Summary
The story follows C.J. Walker (Eden Duncan-Smith) and her best friend Sebastian Thomas (Dante Crichlow), two brilliant high school students and aspiring inventors in Brooklyn. They develop a pair of time-traveling backpacks, initially intended as a fun science project. However, their lives take a tragic turn when C.J.’s older brother, Calvin (Astro), is unjustly killed by the police.
Determined to save her brother, C.J. convinces Sebastian to use their invention to travel back in time and prevent the incident. As they repeatedly attempt to alter the past, they face the complexities and consequences of time travel. Each attempt brings new challenges and unintended consequences, highlighting the difficulty of changing history and the emotional toll it takes on them.
Performance and Direction
Eden Duncan-Smith delivers a standout performance as C.J., capturing the character’s intelligence, determination, and vulnerability. Her portrayal is both compelling and relatable, driving the emotional core of the film. Dante Crichlow’s performance as Sebastian complements Duncan-Smith’s, providing a strong and supportive presence throughout their journey. Astro also delivers a heartfelt performance as Calvin, making his character’s fate all the more impactful.
Director Stefon Bristol, in his feature debut, skillfully blends the sci-fi elements with a grounded, real-world context. The film’s visual style and pacing effectively convey the urgency and emotional stakes of the story. The screenplay, co-written by Bristol and Fredrica Bailey, offers sharp dialogue and well-developed characters, ensuring that the film’s message resonates deeply with the audience.
Critical Reception
“See You Yesterday” received positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a rating of 95%, indicating strong approval. Critics praised the film’s innovative approach to time travel, its social relevance, and the performances of the young cast. The film was lauded for its ability to tackle serious issues within a sci-fi framework, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Streaming Availability
As of now, “See You Yesterday” is available for streaming exclusively on Netflix. Subscribers can easily access this compelling sci-fi drama from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
“See You Yesterday” is a thought-provoking sci-fi drama that offers a unique blend of speculative fiction and social commentary. With strong performances from Eden Duncan-Smith and Dante Crichlow and assured direction from Stefon Bristol, the film provides an engaging and emotionally resonant experience. Its exploration of time travel and its consequences, combined with a powerful social message, makes it a standout entry in the genre. For those looking for a fresh and meaningful take on sci-fi, “See You Yesterday” is a must-watch and is readily available on Netflix.
