Watch Rocks

Rocks is a 2019 British drama film directed by Sarah Gavron, written by Theresa Ikoko and Claire Wilson, and produced by Faye Ward. The film explores the challenging journey of a teenage girl named Rocks (played by Bukky Bakray) who is left to fend for herself and her younger brother Emmanuel (played by D'angelou Osei Kissiedu) after their mother abandons them.

Set in East London, Rocks takes place over the course of a few days during which Rocks tries to keep her family together while dealing with the pressures of school, friendships, and adulthood. She must navigate the complexities of coming of age while facing a difficult reality: she is essentially homeless and must find ways to survive and provide for her brother without drawing attention from the authorities.

As Rocks struggles to make ends meet, she has to rely on her closest friends, including the loyal and supportive Sumaya (played by Kosar Ali), to help her through difficult times. The film portrays the close bond between these girls and the strength that they gain from their friendships, which becomes a source of inspiration for Rocks as she navigates the challenges that lay ahead.

Throughout the film, Rocks is forced to make difficult choices in order to survive. She takes on odd jobs to earn money and tries to keep up appearances despite the chaos that surrounds her. The film explores themes of poverty, friendship, family, and coming of age, as Rocks must negotiate the challenges of adolescence while fighting to keep her family together.

The performances in this film are exceptional, particularly from Bukky Bakray who brings a raw and heartfelt performance as Rocks. The chemistry between the young actors is palpable, with the girls delivering a fresh and authentic portrayal of teenage life in East London.

Overall, Rocks is a compelling and powerful film that offers a unique perspective on the experiences of young people in today’s society. It provides a moving and thought-provoking commentary on the struggles of adolescence and the importance of friendship and community in navigating life’s challenges. The film is a must-see for fans of British independent cinema and anyone interested in issues of social justice and equality.