Nickel Boys is a 2024 film adaptation of Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Directed by RaMell Ross, the film tells the poignant story of Elwood Curtis, a young African-American man whose college dreams are shattered when he is wrongfully sentenced to Nickel Academy, a brutal reformatory in the Jim Crow South. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement, highlighting the stark realities faced by Black youth during this tumultuous period.
The film features Elwood, portrayed by Ethan Herisse, and his friendship with another inmate named Turner, played by Brandon Wilson. As they navigate the harsh conditions of Nickel Academy, Turner offers Elwood survival tips while Elwood clings to his optimistic worldview. Their relationship becomes a central theme of the film, showcasing resilience and hope amidst adversity.
Nickel Boys premiered at various film festivals throughout 2024, including the Telluride Film Festival on August 30 and the New York Film Festival on September 27. It had its limited theatrical release on December 13, 2024. The film has garnered significant acclaim, receiving nominations for multiple awards, including Best Picture at the Oscars and several nominations from the Golden Globes and NAACP Image Awards.
Critics have praised Nickel Boys for its powerful storytelling and emotional depth, with a Rotten Tomatoes score reflecting strong approval from both critics and audiences. The film is set to be available for streaming on MGM+ starting February 28, 2025, allowing a wider audience to experience its impactful narrative.