Exploring Dreams and Realities in "If I Go Will They Miss Me"

"If I Go Will They Miss Me," directed by Walter Thompson-Hernández, is a poignant exploration of the lives of young African American boys in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. The film centers on twelve-year-old Anthony, affectionately known as Lil Ant, who navigates his complex relationship with his father, Big Ant, against the backdrop of their community and the looming presence of LAX.

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Talent-to-Watch Walter Thompson-Hernández Weaves a Lyrical Portrait of a Boy on the Brink of Flight

At the heart of the film lies the intricate relationship between Lil Ant (Bodhi Jordan Dell) and his father, Big Ant (J. Alphonse Nicholson). Lil Ant idolizes his father, likening him to the Greek god Poseidon, while grappling with the reality of Big Ant's struggles after multiple prison sentences. This dynamic is further complicated by the presence of family matriarch Lozita (Danielle Brooks), who serves as a stabilizing force amid the turbulence.

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Lyrical Dreams and Bittersweet Reality Collide in a Moving, Gorgeously Imagined Father-Son Drama

Thompson-Hernández employs a unique visual language that blends surrealism, modern dance, and elements of Greek mythology. The film's aesthetic choices prioritize composition and imagery over dialogue, creating a lyrical narrative that resonates emotionally. The cinematography, led by Michael Fernandez, captures the essence of the community, showcasing its vibrancy and resilience through striking visuals, such as children playing and families gathering.

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Talent-to-Watch Walter Thompson-Hernández Weaves a Lyrical Portrait of a Boy on the Brink of Flight

The film's emotional depth is enhanced by Malcolm Parson's soulful piano score and Jon Batiste's cover of "This Bitter Earth," which bookend the narrative. These musical elements contribute to the film's exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the search for identity within a challenging environment.

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Talent-to-Watch Walter Thompson-Hernández Weaves a Lyrical Portrait of a Boy on the Brink of Flight

While many praise the film's artistic ambition and emotional authenticity, some critics note that its avant-garde style may alienate viewers seeking a more conventional narrative structure. The integration of various motifs, including aviation and mythology, does not always blend seamlessly, leading to moments of confusion regarding the film's overarching message.

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Lyrical Dreams and Bittersweet Reality Collide in a Moving, Gorgeously Imagined Father-Son Drama

Thompson-Hernández has expressed a desire to represent his community authentically, stating that the film aims to provide a new idiom for depicting the lives of Black boys. He emphasizes the importance of capturing their dreams and aspirations, rather than reducing them to mere victims of their circumstances.

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Talent-to-Watch Walter Thompson-Hernández Weaves a Lyrical Portrait of a Boy on the Brink of Flight

• “But in the film’s understanding that that moment mattered — that such flights of whimsy are not frivolous detours from life but essential elements of it, worth protecting in a world so eager to rob you of them — If I Go Will They Miss Me extends to him, his family and all of us watching, a rare and precious bit of grace.” — Hollywood Reporter

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Lyrical Dreams and Bittersweet Reality Collide in a Moving, Gorgeously Imagined Father-Son Drama

• “Instead, Thompson-Hernández gives them wings.” — Variety

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Talent-to-Watch Walter Thompson-Hernández Weaves a Lyrical Portrait of a Boy on the Brink of Flight

"If I Go Will They Miss Me" ultimately serves as a meditation on the complexities of family, community, and the power of imagination. By intertwining the fantastical with the everyday, Thompson-Hernández invites viewers to reflect on the significance of dreams in shaping identity and resilience in the face of adversity. The film's hopeful yet realistic ending underscores the importance of cherishing fleeting moments of joy amid life's challenges.

‘If I Go Will They Miss Me’ Review: Lyrical Dreams and Bittersweet Reality Collide in a Moving, Gorgeously Imagined Father-Son Drama