Set It Off
Plot
Set in contemporary Los Angeles, "Set It Off" is a gripping crime thriller that follows the story of four African American women who have had enough of living on the margins of society. The film's central characters are Frankie (Queen Latifah), Cleopatra (Jada Pinkett Smith), Tish (Gabrielle Union), and Candace (Monica Calhoun). The group, all friends and neighbors, has been struggling to make ends meet, dealing with poverty, abuse, and neglect. Feeling trapped in their circumstances, they come up with a plan to take back control of their lives by pulling off a series of bank heists. The film's narrative is driven by the characters' motivations and personalities. Frankie, the group's leader, is a tough-as-nails woman who has been fighting for survival since childhood. Cleopatra, on the other hand, is a quiet but fierce individual who has been subjected to domestic abuse. Tish is a single mother trying to provide for her young daughter, while Candace is a vulnerable and sensitive soul desperate to escape her miserable life. As the group sets out to execute their plan, they face numerous obstacles, including corrupt cops, rival thieves, and their own personal demons. The film's tense and suspenseful atmosphere is heightened by the characters' desperation and determination to succeed. Throughout the movie, the themes of empowerment, sisterhood, and survival are expertly woven together. The film's portrayal of strong, complex women is both empowering and thought-provoking, offering a nuanced exploration of the social and economic issues faced by African American women in urban America. As the stakes grow higher and the body count rises, "Set It Off" hurtles towards its climax, culminating in a thrilling and intense showdown between the group and their adversaries. With its gripping plot, memorable characters, and powerful message, this film is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers and those who appreciate stories about strong women who refuse to back down.
Reviews
Adam
Spotted on CCTV6, huh? 😉
Sofia
In the end, Stoney achieved the freedom she craved, but at the cost of losing her best friends forever. It all stemmed from the injustices they faced. If they had been treated fairly all along, would the outcome have been different? But the world, unfortunately, is never a place for "what ifs."
Matthew
The ending is unexpectedly surprising, leaving the audience with much to ponder.
Eden
On the surface, the plot is admittedly quite generic; it would likely feel bland with an all-male cast. However, the narrative of four Black female leads supporting each other through a life of crime needs to be considered in the context of its time and social circumstances. This is what sets it apart from other bank robbery films; the dialogue even nods to this very point. P.S. Another Godfather imitation spotted – a testament to Brando's enduring and iconic performance.
Cora
Watched this in preparation for Issa Rae's upcoming remake. Even though it leans into typical heist movie tropes and has some glaring plot holes, looking back after all these years, and even in light of films like "Widows," it stands as a significant moment in pop culture. It puts African American women front and center, with their everyday struggles and challenges becoming the motivation for their crimes. The story transcends a simple action plot, delving into more emotional territory, which sets it apart from many other films. All four actresses deliver strong performances, which is a definite bonus.
Emerson
This film showcases raw empowerment, blending danger with determination. The women's bold choice to take control is both thrilling and terrifying, a perfect blend of rebellion and retribution. It's a gripping reminder that freedom can sometimes come at a risk worth taking.
