One of the more entertaining movies I’ve stumbled upon on is Imperial Dreams on Netflix. One of my biggest gripes with great actors is when they never fill a role other than the one they can nail. Too many times, great acting is defined by typecasting an actor and them knocking it out of the park. Imperial Dreams stars John Boyega who became a household name with Star Wars fans. With a franchise that large, it’s easy for an actor to get pigeonholed into one specific role. With his role in this Netflix original, his acting ability is brilliantly at center stage.
[Rick]
From IMDb.com
“A 21-year-old reformed gangster’s devotion to his family and his future is put to the test when he is released from prison and returns to his old stomping grounds in Watts, Los Angeles.”
Imperial Dreams is one of those “fly under the radar” films that will never get the recognition it deserves. Similar to the movie Room starring Brie Larson, Boyega’s character Bambi is faced with decisions on doing what is right and doing what you need to in order to survive. It showcases the struggles of day to day life as well as the life of an ex-convict.
Showcasing his acting ability, Boyega pulls the audience in perfectly depicting the struggle between what is right and what is easy. Everyone might not know what life after prison is like but everyone can relate to that battle. The small cast brings to life the challenges of wanting something more, something better for ourselves.
Hopefully, his young career blossoms into one of many awards as Boyega shows off his range far from his Star Wars counterpart. Hollywood could use a few more young black actors who can portray multiple roles and not be typecast. From the sarcastic and lovable Finn in Star Wars to the tough yet sensitive Bambi in Imperial Dreams John Boyega has a long career ahead of him. If you’re getting bored with your endless days of binge watching shows, give Imperial Dreams a chance. Rated: 4 out of 5.