Selah and the Spades

In the cloistered, elite world of the Haldwell School, 'Selah and the Spades' follows Selah, a senior grappling with her impending graduation and the powerful underground drug empire she controls. As she navigates senior year, Selah must confront her ambitions, her relationships, and the legacy she will leave behind. The film explores themes of power, ambition, and the complex dynamics of adolescence within a privileged setting.

Selah and the Spades received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its distinctive visual style, strong performances, and exploration of complex themes. Many highlighted Tayarisha Poe's confident direction and the film's unique atmosphere, though some found the narrative occasionally uneven.

• Praised for its striking visual aesthetic and bold directorial vision.
• Celeste O'Connor delivers a compelling performance as the ambitious protagonist.
• The film's exploration of power dynamics within a boarding school setting is captivating.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's unique style and storytelling, with many commenting on the strong acting and the intriguing, albeit dark, narrative. Some viewers found the pacing a bit slow at times, but the overall sentiment was positive.

Premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2019, generating significant buzz and securing distribution deals.

The film was shot at the historic Mercersburg Academy in Pennsylvania, an actual boarding school, adding to its authentic atmosphere.