A Rose in Concrete (2024)

[bunniefuu]

(dramatic music)

(crickets chirping)

[Kid] You suck at Call of Duty.

Well, you suck at Madden

and you always wanna play that.

So where did your parents go tonight?

The ballet.

Ew, gross.

I don't know.

They took me to the last one.

It wasn't so bad.

Don't get too wrapped

up in that game, boys.

Dinner's gonna be ready in 10 minutes.

(doorbell dinging)

Hello, I'm Detective Davis.

This is Detective Reynolds.

Is a Fletcher Thompson here?

We have some unfortunate news.

[Detective Reynolds]

There's been an accident.

(pensive music)

(pensive music continues)

(pensive music continues)

(pensive music continues)

(pensive music continues)

Bags all in the trunk and everything?

Yes.

[Grandpa] How was your flight?

[Fletcher] Okay.

[Grandpa] You never

were much of a talker.

There's a lot of homeless people here.

Welcome to South Los Angeles, son.

(pensive music continues)

(baby crying)

(traffic humming)

I know it ain't fancy like

your big house in Connecticut,

but we'll make do.

You'll get used to it.

(trunk door clunking)

Is that my grand baby? (laughing)

I want you to know this is your home too,

the same home your mama grew up in.

You a Thompson, but you're a Parker too.

Don't forget that.

Don't just stand there.

Give your cousin a hug.

You ain't seen him in forever.

I saw him at the funeral, Grandma.

Good. Now y'all get washed up.

Thank you for allowing me to live here.

Oh, you're so proper and mannerly.

I bet it was all those

private schools in Connecticut.

Your mom used to brag

about you all the time.

Honor roll, all those advanced classes.

Hey, maybe you can

even help your cousin Jay

out with school.

Lord knows he needs

all the help he can get.

Sure, if he wants.

The only thing you can do

for me is stay out of my way.

It's because of you that my grandpa

had to put another bed in here.

Now my room is smaller.

You know, it's not like I

wanted to come live here.

It's not my fault my parents died.

I mean, that sh*t is messed up.

Yeah, you're allowed to curse?

Man, I do whatever the hell I want.

And also, I fart in my sleep.

Get used to it.

(soft music)

(pensive music)

(ball clunking)

Jay, where do you think you're going?

[Jay] I'm just going

to the community center

with Tyrone and them.

Not without your cousin, you're not.

You're taking him with you.

But Grandpa, he won't fit in.

Are you gonna stand

there and argue with me?

I really don't have to go, Grandpa.

You're going.

Fine. Come on, then.

(tennis shoes squeaking)

(basketball bouncing)

(pensive music)

(Fletcher thudding)

Man, what's wrong with you?

I told you I don't play

basketball that much.

Man, that's (indistinct).

Stop tripping all over the damn court.

(pensive music continues)

You know what?

You can't play no more.

Let's play one on one.

(basketball bouncing)

(pensive music continues)

You weren't that bad.

Jay's just mean.

I was kind of bad.

I'm not very coordinated.

I suck at sports.

Why do you think Jay's mean?

Is he mean to you too?

Yeah, owes me a dollar

and he won't give it back.

[Fletcher] I'm sorry to hear that.

No, you're not.

You could care less.

No, you, never mind.

Hey, what's your name, anyways?

Fletcher?

I'm Jay's cousin.

Well, I'm Alexis.

(pensive music continues)

Well, I'm going inside

to watch the dance class.

Wanna come? There's snacks inside.

Me?

I don't dance.

I'm just gonna watch and not join in.

Plus it's way more fun

than sitting on those stairs,

and you look like you need a friend.

Okay.

Hi, Mr. Isaiah.

What have I told you

about going up to the rooftop?

It's not safe.

That's right, it's not safe

and you could get hurt.

I told him he needs to fix that lock.

I was just showing my

friend Fletcher around.

Yeah?

Does Fletcher wanna dance too?

I'm not sure.

Hmm.

I know you wanna dance because I see you

every week in my class.

Look, I'm starting a new

class for kids your age

and I think you should take it.

My mama can't.

I know.

I think I might be able

to make an exception.

You think about it?

- Yeah.

- Yeah? Okay.

Don't let me catch you

at that roof anymore.

All right.

Man, where you been?

I've been looking all over for you.

We gotta get home.

We were just... Getting snacks.

Who is this, your

girlfriend or something?

How'd you two meet each other?

You were being mean so

I decided to be nice to him.

By the way, where's my

dollar from the other day?

Girl, I don't owe you no dollar.

You gave that to me.

No I didn't.

Hey, why don't you

just give her her dollar?

Why don't you just

shut the hell up, square.

You need to take you and

your poor girlfriend outta here.

Y'all belong together, a square and a bum.

Her mama's so poor she go to KFC

and lick other people's fingers.

Her daddy's so white, he's

Casper, and look at her clothes.

She can't even afford to

shop at the dollar store.

Don't you got a rich

white daddy in the valley?

Go ask him for some clothes.

Girl, you crazy or something?

Ooh, you lucky you're a girl.

Hey, just stop.

Why you keep dissing her?

We're poor too, you know.

Look at where we live.

[Jay] Bro, what is wrong with our hood?

The houses are small

and there are homeless people everywhere,

so if you're gonna make fun of her,

you're making fun of yourself too.

Yo, I'm so sick of you.

[Kids] Fight, fight, fight, fight.

Mama!

Mama!

(baby crying)

Your mama is tired right now.

Every time you come

around, she's always tired.

Get outta my face and shut that baby up.

(door slamming)

(baby crying)

Don't worry, Alyssa.

Some day you're gonna get outta here.

Everything's gonna be okay.

You'll see.

[Grandpa] I can't believe this.

The boy has only been here two days, Jay.

It's not just my fault.

You hit me first.

He called us poor.

I wouldn't say that we're poor.

We do our best.

We get by.

All this is just beside the point.

You two are gonna have

to live in this house together

for a long time and you're

gonna have to learn to get along.

Listen deep.

You two are gonna go in that room

and you are not gonna come

out until you can get along.

And I mean really get along.

None of this fake stuff.

We can see through that.

Now get.

Go on, get.

[Grandma] He thinks we're poor, Winston.

So what if he thinks he's poor?

But he's not used to living like us.

Well, it'll do him a good deal

to get brought back down to earth.

Money isn't everything.

Besides, I'm more worried about Jay.

That boy gets more and more outta hand

every year that passes

and we're getting too old

to be fighting with that boy to do good.

Well, he's rebellious

just like his mother was.

All we can do is pray

and do the best we can.

(sirens blaring)

(light beat music)

(lighter clicking)

[Alexis] Hey, Mama.

Hey baby.

How you feel? Still tired?

Fine.

Mama, Mr. Isaiah at the

community center said I

could join his dance class, can I?

I really want to.

Sure, baby.

You've always been so good at dancing.

Thanks, mama.

No problem.

This is boring.

I wish you never came here.

Look, I did not come

here to ruin your life.

My parents died and now

I'm stuck here with you.

In this poor house, huh?

I know it's what you

wanna say, so just say it

so I can punch you in the face again.

Go ahead, punch me in the face.

If you're gonna do it, just do it then.

Stop talking, as*h*le.

What?

You just cursed.

You said as*h*le.

It was kind of funny

coming from a nerd like you.

[Fletcher] I guess

you're rubbing off on me.

That's not such a bad thing.

I wouldn't really know.

You know I always wanted a brother.

I thought it was gonna

be like that when I got here.

You're a little too

square to be my brother.

We gotta work on your name though.

Fletcher is kinda-

[Fletcher] I know, I know. It's lame.

Yeah, we got a nickname.

Let me think.

I got it!

Trip, because you're

always falling on the court.

[Fletcher] Yeah, but

that's kind of messed up.

[Jay] It's better than Fletcher.

I guess.

But one day that name

isn't gonna fit me anymore

because I'm not gonna be so clumsy, watch.

Alexis.

Class is not out here, it's inside.

- Oh.

- Come on.

- I like your blue tutu.

- Thanks.

(light piano music)

(light piano music continues)

(light piano music continues)

(light piano music continues)

(light piano music continues)

(light piano music continues)

(light piano music continues)

Don't be late.

I know you didn't see that.

See what? See you mess up on that turn?

First time.

You give yourself a hard time.

I figured I outta go home.

- It's closer to home.

- Don't, please.

Supposed to play ball.

What ball? You should be dancing.

We can go, come get you.

Okay. Hurry back.

(Isaiah clapping)

I was dancing.

You're good, Trip.

You just try so hard to hide it.

I don't know, I mean, dancing is cool.

Like Chris Brown type stuff, you know.

You know kind of stuff,

but not that contemporary stuff?

I don't know, I'd just be

messing around, you know?

Nothing serious.

(gentle music)

(gentle music continues)

Hey, girl.

You scared me.

Aren't you be happy to see me?

Yeah.

I think when you come and watch class,

it's not just only about

who's in the class.

Think about that.

(hand slapping)

Where you a*s been, man?

I've been looking for your a*s.

What, you taking dances classes now?

Nah, man.

Ball is life.

See you, Isaiah.

You know what I'm

saying, girl, stop being extra.

Trip kinda cute too.

Yeah, he is.

Why, you want me to set y'all up?

Girl, no.

Ain't he g*y?

He's not g*y.

I've never seen him

with any other girl but you.

Heard he could dance though.

Yeah, he's my best friend.

He's just different from

other guys around here.

I like my guys with that bad boy sign,

if you know what I'm saying?

How would you know? (all laughing)

But no, Jay definitely has that.

(tennis shoes squeaking)

(basketball bouncing)

(ringtone jingling)

Yo, what up, Midnight?

Right now, right now?

All right, see ya later.

Jay.

Jay.

Midnight? That's Midnight Jacobs.

What are you saying?

What you doing talking to Midnight?

Mind your business, bro.

Tell Alexis I'll be back.

You always know how to cheer me up.

Is it working?

Almost.

Well, I know you like to

have a good bag of Hot Cheetos

after a workout, so.

You know me well.

Stuff will k*ll you.

So, all that sweet stuff you've eaten.

Honey and peanut butter

and banana sandwiches.

You don't know what you're missing.

Whatever.

Damn, this blanket smells

like a homeless person.

You need to wash it sometime.

I knew I might find you over here.

I know.

I just can't believe Jay sometimes, man.

It's like Midnight this and Midnight that.

It's like he forgets he has a girlfriend.

It's impossible for anyone

to forget you with Alexis Clemons.

Why don't you date other girls, Trip?

You know Denise likes you.

Couldn't hurt.

Don't be an as*h*le.

She's not my type.

You know, I would've never thought

that you and Jay were in up together.

I would've never thought so either,

but I guess opposites attract.

You know, I used to hate

when he would make fun of me

for being poor and weird.

Yeah, you guys went

from hating each other

to dating each other.

I know. (laughing)

We're as opposite of night and day,

but Jay puts up such a front.

But to know him, to really

know him, just to love him,

you of all people should know that.

I just don't like him getting

involved with Midnight.

Especially since my mom.

Yeah, you've been through a lot.

I mean, she's good now.

Practice with me.

Come on.

Come on, Trip, you're so good.

You know you want to.

You just had a two-hour rehearsal.

(mellow music)

(mellow music continues)

These days

It's so hard to fall in love

But every day

You're the one I'm thinking of

You're my world

You picked me up when I was down

And when I'm low

Baby, you adjust my crown

You said that you're into me

Don't you wait for me to think

It's about the things you do

That's what keeps me next to you

Trip, that was so good.

You need to stop playing

and take Isaiah's dance class.

I already have a good teacher.

I appreciate the

compliment, but stop playing.

You got talent

You shouldn't waste it.

I should probably walk you

home before it gets too dark.

- Hey, Mama.

- Hey.

Hey, munchkin.

Keep your head straight.

Hey, your man come through

here looking for you today.

He dropped off some money.

Yeah, well, I'm mad at him.

Well, get over it girl.

He's a good man.

He takes care of you.

And what did I tell you about

taking money from him, ma?

Doesn't he take you

to get your hair done,

nails done, and get new outfits?

- But that's different.

- How?

It just is.

Those are gifts.

He shouldn't be dropping off lots of money

like he's some baller.

Wake up, girl.

He is a baller.

That man got money, girl.

You just ain't trying to see it.

I wish I had a man coming around here

dropping off money for me.

You're young, you don't get it.

When you get my age,

you'll see how valuable it is

to have a man with some paper.

Even if he's making money the wrong way?

All money is good money.

Okay, Mama, I gotta study.

(soft music)

(door knocking)

(soft music continues)

What are you doing here, Jay?

You mad at me?

I came by earlier but you weren't here.

I was out with Trip

practicing dance moves.

My cousin straight

weirdo doing ballet and sh*t.

It's not ballet.

Not really, it's

contemporary, you know that.

He should just come

out the closet already.

He'll still be my

cousin, he'll still be cool.

He's not g*y.

Yeah, whatever, but I ain't

come here to talk about him.

I missed you.

What you really mad about?

You, getting deeper and

deeper with selling drugs.

What about school?

I'm dropping out.

Come on, Jay.

School ain't for me.

I ain't no scholar, Alexis.

- But I know one thing.

- What?

I love you.

I've never been more certain

about anything in my life.

Just because I ain't a scholar

and just because I'm hustling

doesn't mean I ain't smart in some ways.

I know to keep a girl like you,

I gotta be doing something.

I got dreams too.

This thing with Midnight is not forever.

I'm in too far with Midnight.

Couldn't get out even if I wanted to.

Not yet.

But I promise I will.

I don't ever wanna lose you.

(soft music continues)

I don't wanna lose you either.

(soft music continues)

(energetic beat music)

Why you don't sell

like Cinderella teams

You should see the things I

fit inside these denim jeans

I can't associate with

y'all the sh*t I kinda mean

Been on one, been on

two, been on everything

Been shoveling my game

(Tyrone laughing)

I'm trying to figure out

how this n*gg*r ain't fall

and bust his a*s yet.

How he can dance, we

can't even walk straight.

Hey yo, shut up, Tyrone,

I can still whip your

a*s on the court though.

Man, you told me he was

doing this pretty sh*t, but damn.

Yo, chill out with all that.

We came to get the ball.

Hey, y'all need another man?

No, we good.

We're shot 'em coming through.

You look busy anyway.

Six, seven, up.

Awesome, ladies, that's right.

(all clapping)

All right, listen up, listen up.

There's a showcase coming downtown.

The Bancroft Showcase.

It's held every year and

there are gonna be scouts

and colleges all over the USA there.

You know we have been invited to perform!

(dancers cheering)

Yes, yes, yes.

All right, listen, now getting invited,

now that's a first for us, all right,

so we need to be

perfection, you understand?

- Yeah.

- Cool.

This is big, not just for

us, but for our community.

And I know y'all understand this, ah.

All right, I'll see guys

next week, all right?

Alexis, can you hold for a second?

Look, there's gonna be a

lot of bigwigs there, okay?

People with connections

and there are a couple

open dance slots tonight.

Believe you should show up.

You should go for it.

It's a chance for you

to show off your skills.

And there's gonna be a scout from Julliard.

Yeah, but we don't have any male dancers,

so who would I partner with?

Hmm, I think you know

the answer to that one.

- Oh, yeah?

- Yeah.

(people chatting in background)

Hey, - Hey. What's up?

What?

Why you looking at me like that?

I need your help.

That's good. I got you.

I need you to dance with

me in the Bancroft Showcase.

What? Why me?

I'm not in your dance class.

You may not be in my dance class,

but you're a dancer, Trip.

Nah, I'm good.

Trip, this is a big deal.

There'll be colleges from all over,

even New York, even Julliard.

And you know I've

always wanted to go there.

Why can't you find someone else?

Who, Trip?

There aren't any other guy

dancers in my dance class.

You want me to dance in public?

I'm not about to do all that.

I get it, you're scared,

but it's time to stop hiding your talent.

Look, people already think I'm g*y

because I dance in the

privacy of my own room.

I'm just trying to get through high school

and get out the hood.

Well, this could be it.

This could be our ticket out,

our ticket to see New York

and the rest of the world.

Dance is your thing.

No, it's our thing and you know that.

Like I said, Alexis, I'm good.

You're not gonna get me to dance in public.

Fine.

Hey, what you doing here?

I just got here.

I needed Trip's help for something,

but it doesn't matter now.

I missed you.

Come on, you can shower at my place.

Hey, you good, cuz?

Yeah, I'm good.

[Jay] All right then.

- Hey.

- Hey.

You still mad about that Bancroft thing?

I ain't mad, I'm good

Look, Alexis.

Trip, it's cool.

I'll get over it.

I just have to find another dance partner,

which is next to impossible.

You trying to guilt trip me now?

I'm not trying to do anything.

I got bio and you got Spanish

on the other side of campus.

(Tyrone laughing)

Bro, did you see that?

Whoa, hold on up.

What's up, twinkle toes?

Screw you, Tyrone.

What'd you say to me?

- Huh?

- You heard me.

Oh, I heard you, huh?

I told you to stop calling me that.

Yeah, I called you twinkle

toes, what you gonna do?

Huh? Huh? Oh, you taking

your bag off like you ready?

Mr. Thompson.

Mr. Thompson, I need

to see you in my office

to discuss your college plans.

Don't worry, I'll write you a pass.

The bell already rang, Mr. Smith.

Come on, bro.

- Teacher's pet.

- Screw you, bro.

You wanna tell me

what that was out there?

I'm just tired of people trying me.

So what? You brought

me in here to stop a fight

that's bound to happen.

I hope it's not bound to happen, but yes.

I really needed to talk to

you about your college plans.

Listen, you've missed a

lot of application deadlines

and I don't have it on

file that you've applied

to any colleges.

- I haven't.

- Why?

I don't know what I wanna do.

What do you like to do?

What makes you feel alive inside?

(energetic music)

You're running out of time.

If there's something that you want to do,

you should pursue it.

You have to start

thinking about the future.

Grade's pretty decent,

but you gotta start making some decisions.

Here are some pamphlets.

These are for some local colleges.

Actually, I wanna get as

far away from here as I can.

You better get to work.

Take this, it's for universities

that are out of state.

All right?

- What up, cuz?

- Hey.

How long you been here?

A while.

[Trip] You left school early?

Yeah, man, I was tired.

Grandpa said he don't

like you drinking his beer,

skipping school.

Ain't like he gotta know.

It's your funeral.

My cousin the boy scout.

Heard you weren't that much

of a boy scout earlier today.

Heard you and Tyrone

was about to throw down.

He keeps trying me.

It's all good, I got it.

Nah, I'm straight.

You can't keep fighting my battles for me.

Look man, you can't be

doing no stupid sh*t, all right?

You got a future.

[Trip] You got a future too.

Not like you.

My path's a little different.

I ain't even gonna be

doing this school sh*t

too much longer anyway.

I'm gonna drop out.

You sure you wanna do that, bro?

I can help you.

I can tutor you.

- Bro, you don't get it.

- Get grades up.

School ain't for everybody.

It's too late for me with this school sh*t.

Trip, just forget it, all right.

So what's next?

Working for Midnight full time?

Maybe.

It's good money.

Jay, you ever think about your mom

and how selling-

Yo, f*ck crack heads, all right?

They wanna take that sh*t,

maybe they deserve what they get.

(door knocking)

- Hey.

- What's up?

Hey, there.

What's wrong?

Nothing. I missed you.

Well, you shouldn't have

missed fifth and sixth period.

I know, I'm a bad boy.

You about to punish me?

(door knocking)

Come in.

Hey.

[Trip] Hey.

It's hard being mad at you.

I thought you weren't mad at me.

You know how women are.

I'm sorry, I miss my best friend.

Wish I could say the same, big head.

Shut up.

You remember in middle

school when I had to present

that poem in front of class

for Black History Month?

Yeah, you were great, eventually.

(both chuckling)

You said something

really smart for a 12-year-old.

Yeah?

Barely remember

You said it was up to me

to carry on my parents'

courage and strength.

I did?

Damn, that was deep.

Yeah, well, you've always

been deep, Alexis Marie Clemons.

And I think you're more brave

than you give yourself credit

for, Fletcher Trip Thompson.

I guess I'm gonna have to be

if I'm gonna dance in front of an audience.

(Alexis laughing)

So you'll do it?

Oh my God.

Now we have a real chance to win this.

Chill out.

There are some conditions.

Okay.

Nobody can find out

and the only place that

we practice is on the roof

and in the studio.

I don't want anyone to see us rehearse.

What happened to being brave?

I'm not there yet.

Baby steps.

Oh God, whatever, you big baby.

(pillows thudding)

What y'all doing?

Having a pillow fight. What it look like?

Y'all weird.

(pillows thudding)

(gentle beat music)

What you like, what, what you like

What you like, what, what you like

Tell me what you like

What you like, what, what you like

Tell me what you like

Tell me what you like

(gentle beat music continues)

(gentle beat music continues)

(gentle beat music continues)

What you like, what, what you like

What you like, what, what you like

Tell me what you like

What you like, what, what you like

Tell me what you like

Tell me what you like

(gentle beat music continues)

(gentle beat music continues)

What you like, what, what you like

Tell me what you like

What you like, what, what you like

Tell me what you like

(basketball bouncing)

Tell me what you like

Yo, bro, this stuff's on you.

Yo, hold on, hold on,

we can sell this on eBay.

That's what I'm saying.

Hey.

What you want, homeboy?

Nothing, man, that's just my board.

This is your board?

It's a nice board, man.

Only it's yours no more.

- Yo, Anton.

- What?

What's up, Jay?

Look, I aint got beef with you, man.

I trying to get this... Yeah, you don't.

This is my cousin.

- You're cousin?

- Yeah.

It's true.

He with Midnight too.

- Let's bounce.

- Yeah, bounce, bro.

Jay, you didn't have to do all that.

Man, that's life.

Plus, ain't nobody gonna be

mess with my cousin, all right?

- You hungry?

- Yeah.

When I play the drums

I can't take no loss

Man, I'm starving.

I think John makes me hungry.

And there's so much goodness here,

but it's so much hate too.

It's like we hate on each other.

This community could be

so much better if we fought

for each other instead

of fighting each other.

Well, I didn't wanna fight Anton,

but I would've for this dude right here.

He like a brother to me.

Not like, you are my brother.

Ain't nobody gonna try you.

I got your back.

Appreciate it.

(beat music playing in background)

Look, y'all.

Actual rose in concrete.

- I don't get it.

- Yeah, me either.

Just a flower.

I remember Tupac, one of his poems.

I only know his rap songs.

Yeah, me too.

Well, rap is poetry, you know?

Yeah, I know that.

I just mean I never like went

to him for traditional poetry.

Man, I never went to nobody

for no damn traditional poetry.

Y'all getting too deep.

That's who we are.

Roses in concrete.

Hey, Mama.

Hey, baby.

Where's Alyssa?

[Alexis] She's in bed, how was work?

Girl, work was work,

but it pays the bill though.

It pays enough to get

you a little something.

Mama!

I love it.

I'm sorry I can't make

it to your performance.

I couldn't get the time off,

but I wanted to make sure

I got you a little something.

Thank you, Mama.

You were born to dance, baby.

You're gonna be amazing.

(upbeat Latin music)

They're were really good, Trip.

Yeah, but we're better.

And even if we aren't,

all we can do is try.

[Jay] Yo, yo, yo, what up?

My God, Jay, what are you doing here?

I told you not to come.

I'm not trying to hear none of that.

Of course I'm gonna come to my baby dance.

It's gonna make us more nervous.

Us?

Yo, bro, you dancing too?

Yeah, I'm dancing.

So you mean all them times

you've been coming home late.

[Trip] Been in practice.

Yo, man, do your

thing. I'm rooting for you.

And look, if anybody got a problem with it,

you gotta deal with me straight up.

Gonna do great, man.

(audience applauding)

Got this?

(upbeat music)

(upbeat music continues)

(upbeat music continues)

Every time you look at me

I feel it in my toes

And I want you so badly

Everybody knows

Conversation and

the last go on for days

We come from different worlds

But we're playing the same game

(upbeat music continues)

(upbeat music continues)

Round and round and back and forth

Is the game that we've been playing

Now it's time to stamp it out

So I can change, I may

You know you've thought about it

(audience applauding) (audience cheering)

(clapping) Oh my God,

you guys were amazing.

Wow, I can't believe it.

I mean, I can believe it,

but you, the lift, the

turns, everything, wow.

- Thank you.

- I knew you guys could do it.

You're all anybody out

there could talk about.

- You guys were amazing.

- Thank you, thank you.

Oh my God.

Trip, Alexis, this is an old

friend of mine, James Rancher.

He is a recruiter for Julliard.

Nice to meet you.

Hey, when Isaiah told me to

come by when I was in town,

I was surprised.

He doesn't usually have a chance

to show me his protegees,

but I'm glad he did.

You two were amazing.

Check it out, Julliard

applications are due in December.

You should apply.

There'd be live

additions, different cities.

Yo.

I enjoyed that, stay at the spot.

All right, bet.

Hey, I gotta run.

Already? I wanted to celebrate.

We'll do it some other time.

I'm really proud of you.

You did great.

As I was saying, the dance program,

it could really open up some doors for you.

And based on what I saw, I

could put a word in for you.

Are you ready for that?

- I'm ready.

- Are you ready ready?

I'm ready.

(both laughing)

You're gonna make some

girl really happy one day, Trip.

You're the best.

These days

It's so hard to fall in love

But every day

You're the one I'm thinking of

You're my world

You picked me up when I was down

And when I'm low

Baby, you adjust my crown

You said that you're into me

But your words don't mean a thing

It's about the things you do

That's what keeps me wanting you

You said that you're into me

Grand boy!

Where you been?

Isn't it obvious?

My boy was getting lucky last night.

Lucky?

With a girl?

I was with a girl last night.

That's all I'm saying.

Sorry I was out so late.

I lost track of time and fell asleep.

You know, it's okay if

you were out with a guy.

I'm not g*y.

I'm just saying if you were,

we'd be cool with it, right?

God is love.

He'll still love you

and we'll still love you.

Yo, just because I don't

parade a bunch of girls

in and outta here doesn't make me g*y.

And if I was g*y, I'd tell you, it's 2015.

I'm not Jay.

I don't have to act like him

to be straight or be a man.

Whoa, bro, slow down.

Jay, I'm sorry.

It's cool, man, no pressure.

Look, I'm not that hungry.

I'm about to go take a shower.

I thought getting some

would be stress relieving.

Look to me like that

boy got more stress now

than before he left.

Hush up now.

- Alexis.

- Trip.

We have to talk.

I can't.

- You can't.

- We need to.

You may as well get it over with.

Okay.

Not here though.

I'll just come by later after rehearsal.

Okay.

Hey yo, did you see the

that Sheila was wearing?

Because I was like, yo, man.

I don't see how, man.

Okay, I know this, but can I get a taste?

That's all I'm saying.

You know that's Ricardo's girl, n*gg*r,

and he'll whoop that a*s.

All right, whatever.

Besides, he and Felix is set, man.

I swear I'm done with y'all, man.

All y'all do is talk sh*t

about other n*gg*r's girls.

True. (laughing)

At least we don't talk

sh*t about your girl.

Man, back in middle school,

she used to be weird as hell.

Now she fine though.

Yo, keep talking, man, I swear to God,

they'll never find your body.

That's my future wife, man.

Hey Eric, can I get a little

something to hold me over?

If you ain't got no

money, get outta my face.

I have some money, see?

So you've been back around here.

(intense music)

Yo, look at me.

(music drowns out speakers)

(intense music continues)

You good?

Damn.

Hey, what the f*ck you

doing over here, man?

You know it's our territory.

Hey man.

You concerned about the b*tch.

(fists punching)

I don't wanna hurt Jay,

but how do you know he's the

one you're supposed to be with?

We're friends, though.

I don't wanna mess that up.

I don't either.

So we'll stop.

Okay.

Okay.

I want you to know something though.

What happened between us, it

wasn't just some random hookup.

Alexis, I'm in love with you.

I always have been.

I didn't mean to make things harder,

but I had to tell you.

Does make things harder.

(somber music)

I think we have to tell him.

My God, Jay, what happened?

[Jay] Nothing, just let down on the job.

[Trip] You need to quit your job then.

Look like hell.

Good, I'm fine.

No, you're not.

Get some ice for your head.

Yo, what happened?

Something that was bound to happen.

I'm sorry.

So.

Justine Parker.

She was out there in the

streets begging for crack.

The worst part was,

most f*cked up part,

she didn't even know who I was.

She didn't even know her own kid.

She looked right through me.

(somber music continues)

You'll be okay, Jay.

We're here for you.

(chalk clicking)

Mr. Thompson, how can I help you?

I know what school I wanna go to.

- Where?

- I wanna go to Julliard.

I figure New York is as far

away from here as I can get.

That's a tough school to get into.

Well, let's get started.

Okay. Come on.

Hey.

Hey.

What you doing here?

Shouldn't you be in school?

Yeah, but I didn't see you in school,

so I figured I check in on ya.

Your grandma let me in.

Yeah, yesterday was kind of weird.

I was tripping.

You weren't tripping, you

were feeling, that's okay.

Anybody will react the way you did

if they saw a parent that

didn't recognize them.

I was eight when she disappeared.

Said she was going to buy

cigarettes, never came back.

Heard she went to Arizona, then Vegas.

Then I guess we lost track.

My grandparents tried the warn me,

but I didn't wanna listen.

Wanted to remember her the

way she was when I was eight.

You know?

You're the only person

who understands me, Alexis.

I mean, you're mom,

she went through all that,

but she still got clean.

I mean, but you still get it.

See, that's why I love you

'cause you understand me.

You're the best thing

I got going in my life.

You could have more good things.

You could stop selling.

Especially knowing your mom is out there.

I will, I promise.

I just can't right now.

Even knowing she could be

out there smoking your product?

I know.

But she's making her own decisions in life.

She doesn't care what I do,

why should I care what she does?

Jay.

I will stop when his

time is right, I promise.

Gonna put this life behind me,

I promise, but I need to know

that you will be there when I do, okay?

Things are gonna turn around for us.

We'll have a beautiful life, you'll see.

(beat music)

She said we'll be best friends

Yeah, best friends

Yeah, you know my best friend

(beat music continues)

Best friends, best friends

(pensive music)

It is okay, I know.

Just know that I'm willing to wait.

Long time.

You're worth it.

Can't lose you, Trip.

You won't, I just need some time.

(pensive music continues)

(bag bangs)

Mr. Fletcher Thompson.

To what do I owe the honor of you standing

in my dance studio?

I need your help.

With what?

I need you to teach me how to dance.

Why?

If you're gonna learn,

you gotta stop caring

about what other people think of you,

this whole image thing.

Are you ready to step outside of yourself?

Because this,

well, it may not help

you get all the girls.

So why now?

When I danced in the competition,

I did it for someone else.

Now, now is for me.

Will you help me?

Of course.

I always knew this day would come.

They told me this way or be nothing

Maybe I should take their advice

Go get a life or maybe

get a job or something

Pack it up and head back home

Tell everybody I was bluffing

Maybe I'll just get outta my head

And focus on what I know's coming

'Cause I can't fall asleep at night

When I'll see in my dreams

Delusion and reality

I'm somewhere in between

These voices in my head get loud

And they keep telling me

That I'm a fool for

trusting in these wings

Maybe, baby, this

what flying feels like

Maybe, baby, this

what flying feels like

Maybe, baby, this

what flying feels like

Maybe, baby, this

what flying feels like

Maybe all my exes just

drinking themselves crazy tonight

Maybe I should call

and say told you I be right

Wondering how long it

was before you realized

The biggest mistake of your life

And now you're paying the price

Oh, is it confidence or confusion

Either way, I feel

like I ain't never losing

Your opinion you notice what I'm chosen

I gotta do this

'Cause I can't fall asleep at night

When I see in my dreams

Delusion and reality

I'm somewhere in between

These voices in my head get loud

And they keep telling me

Live auditions are around the corner.

You think you're ready?

[Trip] Do you think I'm ready?

Mm.

I do. (laughing)

[Trip] That means a lot coming from you

because these rehearsals today.

Aha. (laughing)

Yeah, and then I've been

feeling the same way.

I can't thank you enough

for doing this for me.

Taking time out, teaching me.

Staying later than you normally would.

I don't know how I could ever repay you.

Well, I've only been giving

you these private lessons

'cause I know that's the only

way you can take it seriously.

And what you can do to repay me is

just be successful, man, that's it.

I hope it happens.

Hope it happens? It will happen.

But this thing about being

the ashamed of being a dancer,

there's so many black male dancers.

Yeah, but where we come

from, hip hop's cool, you know,

but anything else, everyone thinks I'm g*y.

Stop with that, man.

Who you are as someone

trying to find them self

and being hell a awkward at it.

You're a fish out of water

trying to make yourself into something

that people will accept.

You may not be g*y,

but you are someone

g*y people can relate to.

And I see myself when I look at you.

- Really?

- Yeah, really.

Stop trying to put yourself

into a box of black masculinity

and just do you.

Look, Trip, if you gonna dance,

I mean really dance,

you're gonna have to let go of this fear

you have inside you.

Okay?

(intense music)

(somber music)

(somber music continues)

And they made me

do this like weird dance.

And I don't know what, I

didn't know what I was doing.

The music was off and I don't know,

I was just standing

there on the stage thinking

I did not get it, you know?

But then I guess I did.

I'm sure you'll be fine, you'll get it.

- Thank you.

- You're welcome.

Okay, I'll see later.

See you later.

Are going out with Renee the leg?

She asked and couldn't see why not.

You couldn't see why not?

They don't call her Renee

the leg for no reason, Trip.

She seemed nice.

Then I know what it's like for people

who can know me if they want me.

Oh my gosh, and now you

have some kindred spirits?

Why you tripping?

Because, because.

I'm out, Alexis.

What happened to you will wait forever?

Was that all a lie?

I gotta live my life, Alexis.

You're in love with Jay, I know this.

You guys are lucky

that you have each other.

Don't I deserve to be loved too?

These last few days

have made me realize that

I can't be without you.

(pensive music)

I think I'm falling for you, Trip.

(pensive music continues)

I applied to Julliard.

You did?

I wanted to, but... Do it.

Wait, do you even still

wanna go to Julliard?

Of course.

I've always wanted to, but I'm just scared.

If I don't get in.

You're the best dancer I

know and you are my teacher.

You're a brilliant dancer.

I am who I am 'cause of you.

You inspire me.

As hard as it is for me to say,

I think we should stay friends for now.

What do you mean?

Outta respect for Jay.

I think we should cool it for a while.

It's gonna be hard, but it makes sense.

You know, they gonna make guys like you.

Yeah, I am a sucker.

No, you're special.

So, friends for now?

Friends, for now.

(bright music)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

What are you doing her?

Me and your mama are getting reacquaint.

Hey.

Only bad things happen

when you come around.

Girl, what are you doing?

I'm a grown a*s woman.

I work hard and if I wanna

have me some company,

I'm gonna have me some company.

Mama, not him.

Girl, stop, what is wrong with you?

Gonna have me some grown folks.

Mm-hmm.

(somber music)

(somber music continues)

Did you get the email?

Yeah.

Got it right here.

I literally feel like I can't breathe.

And here goes nothing.

- You got in too?

- Yeah.

I'm sorry, I know we shouldn't,

but I can't hold it anymore.

I think we should tell Jay.

I think we should too, but tomorrow.

Let's let tonight be about

our acceptance to Julliard.

- We did it.

- We did it.

- We did it.

- We did it.

Hey, munchkin.

Where's Mama?

I think she's sick again.

Again?

Is that supposed to be dinner?

Mama's been sick since I came home.

Damn.

(somber music)

(somber music continues)

(water splashing)

What are doing to me?

What are you doing to your mother?

What are you doing?

What did you do?

Oh! (laughing)

I can't believe my

grandbaby got into college.

Always knew it. (laughing)

Boy, don't you forget

about us when you get

to that fancy college up there.

I won't.

I can never forget about you too.

You believed in me.

And we'll always

believe in you. (laughing)

I know you not gonna

get up with no alcohol.

Tess, it's just Champagne.

I'm gonna have a taste.

Look at your drunk behind.

Tess.

(Grandma laughing)

[Jay] Hey, what's going on here?

You ain't here.

Your cousin got into Julliard.

What? (Grandpa laughing)

That's what I like to see to.

To success.

In spite the odds.

(glasses clinking)

Here, here.

I'm proud of you, man.

I remember when you first came here,

all scrawny and outta shape and sh*t.

You was such a nerd.

[Trip] Come on, man.

But in this day and age,

being a nerd is a great thing.

Really great thing.

You smart enough to find your way out.

You were never cut out for this hood life.

Alexis, either.

I'm really proud of you, man.

And if Alexis gets in, I

need you to take care of her.

(ring tone jingling)

Jay, I need to tell you something.

Hey, hold up.

Yo, what up? He where?

All right, I'll be right there.

Hey yo, I gotta go, we'll talk later.

Yo, I just thought about something.

I gave you nickname Trip,

but that ain't accurate no more.

You going to school for dance,

you all graceful and sh*t now.

You're not clumsy no more.

I love you, cuz, and I'm not proud of you.

I'll see you later, Fletcher.

(intense beat music)

(intense beat music continues)

(g*nf*re banging)

[Police] Are you related

to a Jerome Thompson?

[Grandma] Yes, that's my grandson, Jay.

[Police] There's been a sh**ting.

I'm afraid he didn't make it.

(somber music)

- Oh, hey.

- Hey.

I haven't seen you since the funeral.

I wanted to check on you.

Okay, I guess.

Trip, things will never

be like they were before.

- What we did.

- I know.

Do you?

We're horrible people, Trip.

I know.

Don't you think it eats at me?

What we had, what we did was wrong.

I think the way we

went about it was wrong,

but I'll never condemn

myself for loving you.

But I do condemn myself.

I cheated on him.

Jay may have done his dirt,

but deep down he was a good person.

And I'm not just saying that because he...

Jay was just misunderstood.

I know.

What about Julliard?

Have you sent in your acceptance?

You're joking, right?

I'm not going.

[Trip] What do you mean you're not going?

That dream is over, Trip.

This is my reality.

You're gonna throw everything away

because some fool

decided to sh**t my cousin?

Jay would've wanted you to go to Julliard.

He was proud of you.

Even if we don't end up together,

you cannot throw away your future.

It is not just that.

Mama's using again.

What?

I can't just leave my sister.

Not with my mom like this.

Who's gonna take care of her?

Exactly.

Alexis.

You don't get it.

This is how the hood works,

okay, you get stuck here.

You don't know this life.

You never even belonged here.

You're just some uppity

kid from Connecticut.

This ain't your world, just go.

If that's how you

feel, then you're right.

Maybe it's time for me to go.

Yes, you should.

What we had, what we felt it

was wrong and now it's over.

Okay.

Bye, Alexis.

(door slamming)

(somber music)

(upbeat music)

Whoo whoo, I guess I

Whoo, I guess I

Whoo whoo, I guess I

Whoo, I guess I

Whoo whoo, I guess I

Whoo

Whoo, whoo, I guess I

Whoo, I guess I

Whoo, whoo, I guess I

Whoo

Bye, Tina.

It's Trina.

Whatever.

Oh.

What's up man?

Hey, what up, bro?

What's happening?

See things went good

with those girl last night.

[Trip] Gentleman never tell.

All right, man.

Bad June slayer slays again.

And we only share guys on tour.

We got another city.

Yeah, LA.

Man, I can't believe I

just seen my grandparents.

You gonna kick it with that chick

you used to kick it with?

[Trip] Nah, I ain't seen her in years.

Man, when we got to New York,

you wouldn't shut up about her.

Things change and time heals all wounds.

Nah, man, a*s heals all wounds.

I'll see you downstairs, man.

- All right.

- Yeah.

Hey, how can I take a class?

(laughing) Hey.

I should be asking you that, big timer.

- Big timer, man.

- Oh, come on, bullshit.

You're headlining a dance company tour.

That's a big deal, and

you dancing on Broadway.

You heard about that?

Of course I heard about that.

I keep up with all my students

who are gonna be big one day.

That way I know who to

ask for money. (laughing)

Seriously, I'm proud of you.

How are your grandparents?

They're good. I just

came from over there.

Got some of Grandma's good home cooking.

Yeah, I run into them time to time.

I got the strangest feeling

that they would love to see you more often.

They miss you.

I know.

Just with Jay.

[Isaiah] I know.

Loss is hard.

But they're still alive and they miss you

and you gotta make some time

for them while they're still here.

- You're right.

- Hmm.

I mean, I planning on

spending more time here

before my next tour, so.

So, you seen Alexis?

Alexis.

Not really.

I mean, she doesn't have a reason

to come around here anymore, does she?

What about you?

A couple years ago, last

time I came home to visit,

we didn't talk much.

You guys were great together.

Anyway, the dance company's having

auditions downtown tomorrow.

You gonna be there?

Of course I'm gonna be there.

They have the auditions every year.

I know the choreographer.

Cool.

It's really great seeing you, man.

You too.

I wouldn't be a dancer without you.

You wouldn't be a dancer without me,

of course you would.

You wouldn't be a dancer without Alexis.

You know, I might have

coached you along the way,

but she let that fire under your a*s.

All right.

- See you tomorrow.

- See you.

[Fan] Excuse me. Excuse me.

Can you take our picture, please?

(fan laughing)

(people chatting)

(beat music playing in background)

(beat music playing in background)

(beat music playing in background)

(beat music playing in background)

(beat music playing in background)

You can't go back there.

[Trip] Hi.

Hi.

You got my message.

I'm not even sure why I came up here.

It's been years since we.

Since you broke my heart?

I'm sorry.

My heart broke that day too.

Mine broke last night.

I don't need this, Trip.

Alexis, stop.

Why are you doing this?

It's not you.

How would you know?

You don't know me, Trip.

It's been four years.

That's bullshit.

Yeah?

Well, you went off to college.

And you look different, you seem different.

Yeah, a little older,

a little more grown.

I may have changed, but you,

you out here stripping,

you out here taking your clothes off.

I don't need you to judge me, Trip.

[Trip] It's not that,

it's just I hate to see you

not living out your dreams.

Dreams change.

I don't believe that, not for you.

What's up?

My mom.

She died of an overdose a couple years ago.

[Trip] I'm sorry, I didn't know that.

How would you have?

Are you okay?

Yeah, well, as you know,

losing a parent is never easy,

but I had to support Alyssa

and I didn't want her to go to foster care,

so I busted my a*s.

So for now we get by.

[Trip] Feel like sh*t for saying that.

It's okay.

I pushed you away.

Look at you now, though, you're touring.

Wow.

[Trip] You knew about that?

You might not have kept up on me,

but I kept up on you.

Is that why you pushed me away?

That was part of it.

The other reason was Jay, right?

It all worked out.

[Trip] Not for you.

I'm alive in South

Central LA, I got my sister.

That's all that really matters.

I don't believe that,

Alexis, look at you.

You're out here stripping

and that's not you for

being a stripper, it's a job.

Please.

- You're a real dancer.

- Trip, please.

That ship has sailed.

I was in high school.

[Trip] Yo, Alexis,

quit acting like dancing

isn't your passion.

What is this, Trip?

You come back from an upscale school

on a feature tour to do what?

Save the little poor black girl.

I don't need a savior.

And what about you?

Befriending the little nerdy boy.

The kid that would never fit in.

The kid that would rather

dance than play sports.

I needed a savior back then.

I sure as hell got one.

You're just not gonna

let this go, are you?

See, you may think you don't know me,

but the fact that you said

that means that you still do.

So my dance company, we're

holding auditions downtown.

We're looking for a couple more dancers

and I would love for you to try.

I know the choreographer.

I'll speak to him for you.

I don't know, Trip.

Alexis, it'll open up so

many opportunities for you.

We can work out the details later,

but you're the best dancer I know.

All I can say is I'll think about it.

When are the auditions?

Tomorrow.

I can text you the details.

Wow.

I'll think about it.

(pensive music)

Trip.

Yeah.

Can we dance with someone tomorrow?

I think so.

Would you dance with me?

I don't even know the moves.

Yeah, you would.

You'll feel it.

That's if I go.

I would love to dance with you.

My pleasure.

Bye, Alexis.

Your girl's late.

I don't think she gonna show.

She is.

[Choreographer] Oh,

I'm leaving in 15 minutes.

The only reason I'm still

here is because of you, Trip.

I know.

Alexis, thank God you're here.

I thought you weren't gonna show.

Everything was last minute.

I had to make arrangements for Alyssa.

Let's go over here.

Hi. I apologize for being-

- Are you ready to dance?

- Yeah.

I told you she'd be worth the wait.

(upbeat music)

Oh, I wanna dance

Come share this dance with me

Take my hand

Oh, I wanna dance

Come share this dance with me

Take my hand, yeah

Tell me what's your name

Just tell me what you are

Is this some type of connection

Although we most stand the apart

See where how far we

drive through galaxies

Cruising on star

We make connection to

see just how big your heart

So put your hands up

Move your body

Astronomy, we are stars

It's no worries

But I got you

We can go, we can do it

I wanna dance

I wanna dance

Share this dance with me

Take my hand

Ooh, I wanna dance

Share this dance with me

Take my hand

Ooh, I wanna dance

I wanna fuss and fight

But I wanna dance

Hey, I like my style

I like to sin

But when you got this sh*t

So you can let the pigs roam

I can never tell you baby we won't quit

Put your hands up

Put your body

Astronomy, we are stars now

It's now worries

I got you

We can go, we can do it

Baby, I wanna dance

I wanna dance

Wanna share this dance

Wanna share this dance

Put your hand

Move

I wanna dance I wanna dance

Share this dance

Share this dance, baby, oh

I wanna dance

I wanna dance

I wanna dance

Dance

Dance

You were right, she's really good,

but together, they're magic.

Hmm, my sentiments exactly.

Alexis, you would need

to start from the bottom.

It's okay, I can work my way up.

Your moves are not

as sharp as they could be,

but you definitely have potential.

We don't normally do

this, but, welcome aboard.

Really?

Thank you so much.

Trip will fill you in on all the details.

Thank you, thank you again.

Oh my God, you two, you

two are two of my best students.

And what you have, I mean,

what you've always had is magic.

Isaiah, we couldn't have-

Ah, stop that.

I teach people how to dance,

but I don't teach 'em what you have.

Don't lose it.

I hope you didn't mind the kiss.

I was gonna say the same thing.

It's old habits die hard.

I guess so.

Maybe we could grab

some food and catch up.

I still love you.

I know it's probably weird

for me to say this to you now,

especially after all these years, but

no one has been able to

occupy my heart the way you do.

It's silly, you probably have

a girlfriend or something or.

It's cool, I'll...

We don't have to talk about it.

I won't make things weird

in the dance company or...

Can you say something, please?

I've danced with many girls.

None of them can match me beat for beat.

None of them can anticipate my every move.

None of them are as in sync as you and me.

None of them can feel me the way you do.

Is it all about dancing for you?

Alexis, it's never just

been about dancing for us.

(bright piano music)

(bright piano music continues)

I miss you, bro.

Look, sorry, man.

I hope up there you

can forgive me for Alexis,

but we're happy, man, really happy.

I just love her so much.

And little JJ, man, he

reminds me a lot of you.

Really feisty.

Really feisty.

We just finished up another tour.

When we're off tour, Alexis,

well, she's doing something

else she always wanted to do.

She's a dance teacher too.

We never wanted to hurt you,

but this love is real and

we have to follow our hearts.

(bright music continues)

I hope someday you'll see how

happy we are and forgive us.

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(bright music continues)

(gentle music)

(gentle music continues)

These days

It's so hard to fall in love

But every day

You're the one I'm think of

You're my world

You picked me up when I was down

And when I'm low

Baby, you