‘The Land’ is a coming of age story about brutal reality of chasing your dreams.
The Land, written and directed by Steven Caple Jr., tells a story of four young adults chasing their dreams of becoming professional skateboarders. The film was executive produced by rapper Nasir “Nas” Jones, and co-executive produced by Erykah Badu. Starring Jorge Lendebord Jr., Moises Arias, Rafi Gavron and Ezri Walker, The Land does and incredible job of telling a story of friendship, decision-making and hardships of early adult life.
The Land’s action is set in present day Cleveland, OH. The story follows Cisco (Jorge Lendebord Jr.), Junior (Moises Arias), Patti Cake (Rafi Gavron) and Boobie (Ezri Walker)- four friends attending school to learn to be auto mechanics. All of them, coming from low income families, dream to professionally skateboard. In order to make any money they steal cars for petty change. During one of the hijacks they come across an enormous amount of ecstasy pills – which leads to a series of unfortunate events.
The Sundance acclaimed film touches on the whole spectrum of emotions. The auditorium was filled with a mix of laughter, gasps for air and empathetic “oh no’s.” All of the actors, even though only now breaking through, delivered amazing performances, letting the audience become familiar and sympathetic with each of the characters. Cameos from Erykah Badu, Linda Emond, Kim Coates and Michael Kenneth Williams are a cherry on top of that touching movie.
The Knockturnal was on the scene at the New York premiere and spoke to supporters and contributors of the project including Rafi Gavron, Maino, Mannie Fresh and Vashti Kola.
The Land hits theaters on August 3rd.