The latest film from Mostafa Keshvari is entitled Colorblind, released by Gravitas Ventures. This film tells the story of a colorblind black artist, Magdalene (Chantel Riley), who has moved to a new neighborhood with her son, Monet (Trae Maridadi) as a result, they have a difficult time seeing people's true colors. The family landlord, Walton (Garry Chalk), comes face-to-face with Monet's black-and-white perspective when he babysits the youngster.
One of the things viewers will notice about the film is that it gives off an almost student film thesis vibe. This decision is correct, as Mostaka's script allows the talent to shine. The story follows Magdalne and her son, who share the same blessing (or curse, depending on perspective) of colorblindness. Determined to keep their shared differences confidential, the mother teaches her child never to reveal his vulnerability. Viewers experience amalgamated palettes through their perspectives as they navigate racism in every corner of this unnamed city. This includes profiling cops to a landlord who expresses distaste for the pair.
The landlord, an ex-firefighter, harasses them verbally but somehow showcases his bigoted sentiment through music, propelling the narrative ahead with each pressing visual. In lighter moments, however, they find beauty in seemingly chaotic colors: like those found in diluted paintings or perhaps those scattered throughout nature's fields where cotton initially flourished.
All decisions in the film are deliberate, and some viewers may blink at some tropes. Mostafa Keshvar could have gotten his message across and not pushed the film in some of the directions he took it. Nevertheless, despite the clichés we are given, I was impressed by the acting of our three leads and can provide the film a mild recommendation.
Final Grade: C
Colorblind is available on digital platforms now