Near the end of Aristotle Torres’ assured feature debut “Story Ave,” a title card comes up on the screen, noting the film is “by The Bronx.” It’s a short moment, leading into the end credits, but it nevertheless speaks volumes to the textured approach that Torres gives to a film that, at least in its outline form, could feel cliché. A narrative about a gifted young artist Kadir (Asante Blackk), who falls into a gang as a result of buried trauma revolving around this family, only to be pulled out by a kind, lonely, older man Luis (Luis Guzmán) might have the surface trappings of a move-of-the-week, but Torres brings out enough stylistic flourishes and lived-in performances to elevate “Story Ave” into being one of the undersung movies of the year so far. 

READ MORE: ‘Story Ave’ Trailer: Luis Guzmán & Asante Blackk Star In A Touching Tale About Growing Up In The Bronx

Of course, it helps that the core relationship between Kadir and Luis is grounded by two actors who aren’t afraid to shade in these characters.

Continue reading ‘Story Ave’ Review: Aristotle Torres’ Humane Direction Elevates One Of The Most Undersung Movies Of The Year at The Playlist.

The pipeline from music video to feature film director isn’t discussed enough. Many beloved filmmakers started with music videos and commercials, from Spike Jones to Gus Van Sant to David Fincher. 

Joining the ranks now is Aristotle Torres, who is known for beginning his career as the creative director for his college classmate J. Cole and going on to start the multi-media artist collective By Any Means, which produced and directed 70+ music videos for artists such as Big Sean, Justin Beiber, 2 Chainz, Busta Rhymes, Ludacris, and more.

Continue reading ‘Story Ave’ Trailer: Luis Guzmán & Asante Blackk Star In A Touching Tale About Growing Up In The Bronx [Exclusive] at The Playlist.