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Following four boys in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood over several years, "STAYS" offers an intimate look at their challenges and triumphs as they navigate adolescence. The film captures their experiences with school, family, community, and the ever-present specter of violence. It highlights their resilience and aspirations against a backdrop of systemic issues.

STAYS received widespread critical acclaim for its empathetic storytelling, intimate access, and powerful depiction of urban youth. Critics lauded director Steve James for his patient and nuanced approach, highlighting the film's ability to humanize its subjects and provide a compelling, often heartbreaking, look at their lives. Audiences were moved by the boys' journeys and the film's unflinching honesty.

• Praised for its deep empathy and observational power in portraying the lives of inner-city youth.

• Hailed as a masterful piece of documentary filmmaking that offers a nuanced and vital look at resilience.

• Recognized for its unflinching honesty and the compelling human stories at its core.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly lauded STAYS for its powerful and moving portrayal of young lives facing significant challenges. Many highlighted the film's emotional depth and the inspiring resilience of the boys featured. Reviewers frequently commented on the film's authenticity and its ability to foster understanding and empathy.

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Received numerous awards and nominations from various film critics' circles and festivals, including recognition for its outstanding achievement in documentary filmmaking.

Director Steve James had previously filmed parts of the documentary's footage years earlier for his acclaimed 1994 film 'Hoop Dreams,' intending to follow some of the same subjects, but the project evolved into 'STAYS' to focus on a new group of young men.