Really Love (2020): Cast, Ratings & Plot
Really Love is a 2020 romantic drama directed by Angel Kristi Williams, starring Kofi Siriboe as Isaiah Maxwell, Michael Ealy and Uzo Aduba. It runs 1 hour 35 minutes. Its Echo Score is 76/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 35m (95 min)
- Director
- Angel Kristi Williams
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- MACRO
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Really Love About?
The premise of Really Love without spoilers. The whole story is in the plot summary further down.
A rising black painter tries to break into a competitive art world while balancing an unexpected romance with an ambitious law student.
Really Love Themes & Keywords
· 7 tags- art
- african american
- painter
- washington d.c.
- artist
- asking someone out on a date
- boyfriend girlfriend relationship
Really Love Cast & Characters
Kofi Siriboe leads the cast as Isaiah Maxwell, with Michael Ealy as Yusef Davis and Uzo Aduba as Chenai Hungwe. Directed by Angel Kristi Williams; 13 actors are credited in all.
- Director Angel Kristi Williams
-
Kofi Siriboe as Isaiah Maxwell -
Michael Ealy as Yusef Davis -
Uzo Aduba as Chenai Hungwe - Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing as Stevie Solomon
Also Starring in Really Love
· 9 more- Tristan Mack Wilds Nick Wright
- Jade Eshete Mecca Gerima
- Maria Broom Regina Maxwell
- Blair Underwood Jerome Richmond
- Gina Jun Theater Patron
- Marla Aaron Wapner Reporter
- Suzzanne Douglas Anne Richmond
- Naturi Naughton Sicily Richmond
- Kyle Schliefer Adam
Really Love Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 76/100, strongest in sensory experience (90) and weakest in story & flow (55).
Really Love Echo Score Breakdown
Really Love presents a heartfelt portrait of Black urban life that resonates with many viewers, though it is hampered by uneven storytelling. Critics commend its authenticity and artistic ambition, while several audiences note underdeveloped characters and a lack of narrative closure. The film’s visual and musical elements receive consistent praise, strengthening its appeal. Overall, the strengths in craft and emotional resonance offset the structural weaknesses, resulting in a solid, if imperfect, viewing experience.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 85
In terms of art and craft, the film excels with striking cinematography, richly textured color palettes, and meticulous production design that capture Washington, D.C. well. Reviewers highlight the visual elegance and thoughtful camera work as standout elements. Some observers mention a weaker script, but direction and visual execution remain strong. The net impression is that the film’s artistic presentation is highly effective.
- Character & Emotion 70
When evaluating character and emotion, performances are generally praised for naturalism and chemistry among the leads. Critics note a talented cast and compelling interpersonal dynamics. However, several viewers point to insufficient character development, especially for the female lead, and a lack of depth that leaves motivations unclear. The balance of strong acting against limited depth yields an overall moderately positive assessment.
- Story & Flow 55
The story and flow receive mixed feedback, with authenticity in relationship depiction offset by narrative shortcomings. Positive remarks focus on realistic ups and downs and an engaging premise reminiscent of classic romance films. Criticisms target underdeveloped plot points, reliance on familiar tropes, sluggish pacing, and an unresolved ending. Consequently, the storytelling aspect is viewed as uneven and less compelling than other elements.
- Sensory Experience 90
Sensory experience stands out, as reviewers consistently applaud the soundtrack, sound design, and visual style. The music is described as emotionally resonant and memorable, while the cinematography and wardrobe contribute to an immersive aesthetic. Few negatives are noted, and the cohesive sensory package enhances the film’s emotional impact. The overall impression is that the sensory components are exceptionally well executed.
- Rewatch Factor 80
Rewatch factor is generally high, with many viewers expressing a desire to revisit the film and share it with friends. The authentic representation and emotional honesty encourage repeat viewings, despite lingering dissatisfaction with the ending. Some audience members mention wanting a sequel to resolve unresolved plot threads. On balance, the film’s appeal and memorable moments support strong replay value.
Really Love Plot Summary
What happens in Really Love from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 13 key events. The opening is below; the full summary is a 4-minute read.
Spoilers ahead
Isaiah Maxwell [Kofi Siriboe] is a struggling Black painter in Washington, D.C. At an art show by his colleague Yusef Davis Michael Ealy, he runs into gallery owner Chenai Hungwe Uzo Aduba, who invites him to create a piece for a future show. He’s pulled in by Chenai’s eye for talent, and he’s also drawn to the easy warmth of Stevie Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing, a connection that feels electric from the start.
Full summary
The whole story of Really Love, scene by scene
Really Love Trailers & Videos
The trailer of Really Love.
How Well Do You Know Really Love?
10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.
Question 1 of 10
- Question 1: not answered
- Question 2: not answered
- Question 3: not answered
- Question 4: not answered
- Question 5: not answered
- Question 6: not answered
- Question 7: not answered
- Question 8: not answered
- Question 9: not answered
- Question 10: not answered
What is the name of the main character who works as a struggling painter?
Really Love Also Known As
20 alternative titles, including “Amor de verdad” and “真爱是你”.
- Also known as
-
- Amor de verdad
- 真爱是你
- Naprawdę miłość
- L'amour est un art
- Gerçekten Aşk
- 사랑을 하려면
- באמת אהבה
- Μια Αληθινή Αγάπη
- Un romance de verdad
- Правда любить
- Справді люблю
- Dragoste pe bune
+8 more Show fewer
- حب حقيقي
- 真愛是你
- Opravdová láska
- Valódi szerelem
- सच्चा प्यार
- 愛の行方
- Prava ljubav
- Thực sự yêu
Seen Really Love?
Movies Like Really Love
Films with a similar story, tone or audience, including Love, I Love You and Love Jones.
Really Love FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date
Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Really Love, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Really Love?
Really Love runs 1 hour 35 minutes (95 minutes).
When was Really Love released?
Really Love was released on October 16, 2020.
Who directed Really Love?
Really Love was directed by Angel Kristi Williams.
Who is in the cast of Really Love?
Really Love stars Kofi Siriboe as Isaiah Maxwell, Michael Ealy as Yusef Davis and Uzo Aduba as Chenai Hungwe, among 13 credited actors.
Does Really Love have a post-credit scene?
No. Really Love has no extra scene during or after the credits.
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