Kicks

In Oakland, California, 15-year-old Brandon dreams of owning a pair of Air Jordan sneakers to escape his difficult reality. When his prized shoes are stolen by a local gangster, Brandon and his two best friends embark on a dangerous mission to reclaim them. Their journey leads them into the harsh realities of the streets, testing their loyalty and courage as they confront escalating violence and confront the consequences of their actions.

Kicks received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its authentic portrayal of adolescent struggles and its unique visual style. The film was commended for its raw performances and its unflinching look at the pressures faced by young men in urban environments. While some found the narrative occasionally predictable, the overall sentiment highlighted its compelling storytelling and atmospheric direction.

• Praised for its authentic voice and visual style, capturing the spirit of Oakland.
• Applauded for its strong performances, particularly from the young cast.
• Noted for its gritty and realistic depiction of teenage aspirations and street pressures.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's realistic portrayal of youth culture and its compelling narrative. Many found the performances engaging and the film's exploration of themes like aspiration and peer pressure to be effective. Some reviewers mentioned that while the story was impactful, it occasionally tread familiar ground.

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival (2016).

The film was shot on location in Oakland, California, with director Justin Tipping drawing inspiration from his own experiences growing up in the area.