Our Song is a wonderful independent film directed by Jim McKay.  It takes place in Brooklyn, New York and follows three young girls who are members of the Brooklyn Jackie Robinson Steppers Marching Band.  They find out that their high school is closing down soon due to asbestos and are making plans to figure out what other schools they can go to in New York.  But those aren't the only plans on of the teenage girls is making.  Maria, played by Melissa Martinez, finds out that she is pregnant and wants very much to keep the child but has to figure out how she will take care of it.  Lanisha, played by Kerry Washington, doesn't think Maria is ready to be a mother.  But as any good friend would do, she continues to love and support her friend no matter what decision she decides.

Just me:  I really enjoyed this film.  It reminded me what it was like to be a young teenage girl.  I could easily relate to the story.  I too was in the exact same position as Kerry Washington's character when my best friend told me she was pregnant.  We were freshman in high school.  I too had to make the decision to put my opinions aside and give my friend love and support.  Because that's what true friends do.

I love watching independent films.  But I can't say they're for everybody.  If you've seen the Precious film recently, you might remember how it ended?  The leading character Precious meets with the social worker and her mom at the end of the movie.  And after having a talk about what to do with her life, she steps out onto the New York streets.  Then....the credits role.  And you're left thinking "What the hell happened next?"  Does Precious get away from her mother?  Does her baby turn out OK?  Well, Our Song leaves you with that exact same feeling.  But most independent films do.  I think that's why they're so wonderful and REAL.  There's no fancy special effects, over-acting, and unrealistic endings.  Independent films are just a snapshot in time.  That's it.  Who knows what will happen tomorrow?  And that's REAL life.


Release Date: 2000