Watch Rivers Wash Over Me

Rivers Wash Over Me is an emotional and thought-provoking drama from 2009 that explores issues of identity, discrimination and acceptance in a small town in New York state. The film was directed by John G. Young and stars Julia Carothers Hughes, Elizabeth Dennis, and Terrance Epps in the lead roles. The story begins in New York City, where 17-year-old Sequan (played by Epps) is living with his grandmother. His mother has died and his father is in prison, so Sequan has been forced to grow up fast and take care of himself. After falling out with his grandmother, Sequan is sent to live with his aunt in a small town called Riverdale.

Riverdale is a tight-knit community where everyone knows everyone else's business. Sequan's arrival is met with suspicion and hostility, largely because he is black and the town's population is predominantly white. At school, he faces bullying and discrimination from his classmates, who make fun of his clothes and his mannerism.

The only person who seems to take an interest in Sequan is a white girl named Abby (played by Hughes). Abby is a rebellious teenager who is struggling with her own feelings of alienation and loneliness. She is drawn to Sequan's confidence and his willingness to stand up for himself. The two become friends and eventually fall in love, despite the disapproval of their families and the wider community.

As the relationship between Sequan and Abby deepens, they begin to face more and more obstacles. Abby's father is fiercely protective of her and is determined to keep them apart. Sequan's aunt is also unhappy about the relationship and fears it will bring trouble to her doorstep. Meanwhile, the bullying at school escalates, and Sequan is forced to confront the prejudices and bigotry of the people around him.

Rivers Wash Over Me is a powerful and moving film that deals with important issues in a sensitive and nuanced way. The script is insightful and thought-provoking, and the performances from Epps and Hughes are exceptional. Both actors bring depth and complexity to their roles, and their chemistry on-screen is palpable.

The film is also notable for its stunning cinematography, which captures the beauty of the Hudson River Valley and the stark contrasts between urban and rural life. John G. Young's direction is confident and assured, and he handles the difficult subject matter with sensitivity and compassion.

Overall, Rivers Wash Over Me is a compelling and emotionally resonant drama that tackles issues of race, sexuality, and identity in a thoughtful and engaging way. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled, and is well worth seeking out for anyone interested in powerful and thought-provoking cinema.