Jasmine (Iyana Leshae) is a sixteen-year-old high school student with albinism, and her goal in life is to become a model. Faced with adversity in a number of different ways, Jasmine must find ways to overcome her obstacles and be true to who she is. Jasmine is a Star is an emotional journey through the trials and tribulations that come with understanding who you are, both inside and out; and as Jasmine navigates this rocky terrain, she will learn more about herself than she could have ever imagined.
Jasmine is a Star’s message is beautiful, and regardless of where you come from, it is sure to reach you. The purpose of Jasmine is a Star is to inspire, in more ways than one. It inspires us to be true to ourselves, never letting those around us define who and/or what we are. We are constantly reminded of the troubles that exist in the world, but that no matter how often we face those troubles, being honest with ourselves, sticking to our guns, and driving forward is always important. Beyond that, we learn that we should reach for the stars–and as the title of the film suggests, Jasmine is, in fact, a star–even if others struggle to see it. It’s important that we set goals for ourselves, and that, no matter what stands between us and those goals, we never give up. These messages are incredibly prevalent throughout the course of Jasmine is a Star, and it’s almost impossible for viewers not to understand these things. These compelling and important messages are instilled in viewers from the opening moments, and Writer-Director Jo Rochelle never relents throughout the film’s entirety.
I was often troubled by the dialogue throughout Jasmine is a Star. I appreciate the transparency and the honesty that exists in every line, but that honesty sometimes feels misplaced and unnatural. There are moments throughout the film when the dialogue feels less than genuine, and in those instances the words are lost on viewers. I believe we all understand the intent, we all know what Rochelle is going for–but the inorganic nature of the words spoken don’t hold the emotional value needed throughout Jasmine’s story.
Back to the metaphor. It’s such an important part of Jasmine is a Star that the titular character has albinism–and it’s showcased throughout. Much of the narrative focuses on telling viewers that, regardless of how she looks, Jasmine has the ability to achieve whatever she wants to. There are moments sprinkled throughout the film when color is used to juxtapose Jasmine’s aesthetic–and that’s a bold move. There’s a chance that these instances come across as insensitive–but I think the risk that Rochelle takes pays off. We see and understand that, while Jasmine looks different, she sits among the rest of us (among the stars). The visual representation present in Jasmine is a Star is bold, brilliant, and beautiful.
To take Jasmine is a Star at face value would be a mistake, because there is so much that exists beneath the surface in regard to this film. While everything appears to be laid out neatly for viewers, some digging is required to get the full picture. Jasmine is a Star has the potential to be beautiful, but viewers will have to work a little bit in order for it to work that way. To some the juice won’t be worth the squeeze–but for those willing to take their time and do their best to understand all that is being said, Jasmine is a Star will certainly resonate with them.
Written & Directed by Jo Rochelle.
Starring Iyana Leshea, Sha Cage, Kevin West, Eponine Diatta, Sasha Andreev, etc.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/10
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