Hammerman Ikon

Hammerman Ikon Film Guide

Pariah
2011
****
Director: Dee Rees
Cast: Adepero Oduye, Aasha Davis, Charles Parnell, Kim Wayans, Pernell Walker, Sahra Mellesse

Alike, a 17-year-old black girl, has come to terms with her lesbianism. As she is about to embark on her first actual sexual experience, she must find a way to break the news to her parents. Dee Rees' second feature is a gritty coming-of-age story, which offers a believable set-up, plenty of heartbreak, but no easy answers. It's a gloomy but gripping drama, mainly thanks to Adepero Oduye, who gives a very fine performance as Alike.