100 Streets 2017

Three interconnected stories unfold in London, each revealing the lives of individuals grappling with their circumstances. Although the narratives are distinct, they share moments that intertwine the characters in unexpected ways, with one character connecting to the others while maintaining a separate journey.

Kingsley, portrayed by an actor linked to a life filled with poetry and ambition, lives with his single mother and younger sister, Amelia. Absent from their lives is their father, leaving Kingsley to navigate adulthood while dealing with challenges. He and a friend resort to selling drugs, attempting to escape the harsher realities surrounding them. As Kingsley auditions for acting roles, he is also drawn into a dangerous initiation into the drug world that threatens a tragic turn later in the movie.

In another story, Max, a once-cherished sports celebrity, finds his current life bleak despite his efforts to run a foundation supporting young rugby players. His struggle is compounded by his broken relationships, especially with his children, Leo and Evie, and their mother, Emily. The film portrays Max’s attempts to rekindle their romance, revealing his deep-seated depression as he grapples with losing the meaningful aspects of his life, while Emily chases her own dreams of returning to acting, leading to tension between them.

Meanwhile, George, a cab driver and youth coach, faces an uncertain future as he and his partner Kathy wish to adopt a child. However, George’s hidden past looms over their hopes, casting a shadow that threatens their happiness. As he drives around the city, George’s day takes a tragic turn when a moment of distraction results in a fatal accident. Torn between guilt and responsibility, he watches the reverberations of his actions unfold, entwined with the lives of Kingsley and Terence, creating a tragic crossroads.

Kingsley’s journey takes a pivotal turn when he finds himself sentenced to community service at a cemetery, where he meets Terence, an older man who shares a passion for poetry and music. Initially reluctant to engage with Terence, Kingsley slowly forms a bond with him, revealing the transformative power of friendship and mentorship. As Terence recites poetry, including lines from a piece titled “100 Streets,” it resonates deeply with Kingsley and serves as a metaphor for their lives. Their friendship, however, is tested as Kingsley confronts the violent actions of those in his world.

The film culminates in intense moments: Kingsley witnessing the cruel actions of his acquaintances towards Terence, leading to devastating consequences, and Max’s spiral out of control when faced with jealousy and despair. The climactic scenes of violence and emotional breakdown leave viewers gripping their seats as characters confront their demons.

As the film navigates the complexities of life, love, loss, and regret, it illustrates how personal choices reverberate through interconnected lives. Kathy encourages George to find peace and redemption after his loss, reminding us all of the power of second chances and the possibility of moving forward amidst tragedy.

Finally, as Kingsley grapples with the fallout of his actions and Max faces the violence of his despair, we are left contemplating the harsh realities of life’s choices and the delicate threads that connect us all amidst the chaotic tapestry of urban existence. The film closes with an invitation to reflect on our own narratives, as we consider the many streets that lead us to where we are today.