Netflix Welcomes ‘We Grown Now’ This October: Here’s Why You’ll Love It

Watch We Grown Now on Netflix this October! Sony Pictures Classic film set in 1990s Chicago, directed by Minhal Baig. The wait is finally over for fans of Sony Pictures Classics! After a long drought, a new scripted movie from the studio is set to stream on Netflix in the U.S. this October. We Grown Now, the critically acclaimed film directed and written by Minhal Baig, will be available starting October 3rd, 2024. Following its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2023 and a limited theatrical release, the movie now finds its way to the broader Netflix audience as part of Sony Pictures’ first window deal with the streaming platform.

Curious about the film? Let’s dive deeper into what makes We Grown Now a must-watch this fall.

A Sony Pictures Classic on Netflix: What You Need to Know

Sony Pictures Classics has a well-established reputation for producing thoughtful, character-driven films, and We Grown Now continues that tradition. After Sony struck a deal in 2021 for its theatrical releases from 2022 onward to appear on Netflix during their first window, this film is one of the latest to make its way to the platform.

The Story Behind ‘We Grown Now’

Set in 1990s Chicago, the movie follows two best friends as they navigate life in public housing. The story focuses on their childhood and the unique challenges they face while growing up in a world filled with both hope and hardships. It’s a powerful coming-of-age narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the trials of growing up in difficult circumstances.

A Stellar Cast

Blake Cameron James and Gian Knight Ramirez star as the two young leads, bringing emotional depth and authenticity to their roles. The film also boasts a talented supporting cast, including S. Epatha Merkerson, Avery Holliday, Ora Jones, and Lil Rel Howery, with the ever-amazing Jurnee Smollett adding her own standout performance. Each actor adds richness to a story that focuses not just on the struggles but also on the bonds that define these characters.

Critical Acclaim and Praise

After its debut at TIFF 2023, We Grown Now received glowing reviews from critics and audiences alike. Jacob Oller of Paste Magazine highlighted the film’s “realistic warmth,” calling it a “’90s coming-of-age drama” with “rumbling hopes and roadblocks jutting up in front of children whose very existence is defiant.”

Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert.com echoed those sentiments, applauding the film as “a solid family drama anchored by warm visual language, deep empathy for its characters, and a wonderful performance from Jurnee Smollett.”

What Makes the Film Special?

The magic of We Grown Now lies in its authenticity. Set against the backdrop of 1990s public housing in Chicago, the film doesn’t shy away from showing the difficulties of life. Yet, it’s filled with moments of joy, love, and humor that reflect the human spirit’s resilience. It’s not just another coming-of-age story—it’s a story of friendship, survival, and the unbreakable bonds of community.

Why Netflix?

Thanks to the 2021 first-window deal between Sony Pictures and Netflix, movies like We Grown Now are getting a new lease on life through streaming. For many, Netflix offers a chance to access films they may have missed during limited theatrical runs, and for Sony, it’s an opportunity to reach wider audiences globally.

More Than Just a Movie: A Cultural Reflection

Movies like We Grown Now offer more than entertainment. They provide a window into the lives of people often marginalized or ignored by mainstream media. Through the lens of these young characters, viewers get a glimpse into life in Chicago’s public housing during the ’90s—a time and place that may be unfamiliar to some but is deeply important in understanding American history and social dynamics.

What to Expect When It Streams

We Grown Now is expected to draw in a large audience when it debuts on Netflix. If you’re a fan of heartfelt, character-driven stories, this film is for you. Expect beautifully shot scenes, emotional performances, and a soundtrack that captures the mood of the era.

Key Themes Explored in the Movie

Friendship – At its core, We Grown Now is about the unbreakable bond between two boys trying to make sense of the world.
Resilience – The film showcases the resilience of children growing up in tough environments.
Family Dynamics – From single-parent households to extended community support, the film paints a realistic portrait of family life.
Social Issues – Set in public housing, the movie explores socio-economic challenges and the impact of systemic inequality.

Why You Should Watch It

This isn’t just another coming-of-age movie; it’s a deep, thoughtful exploration of life’s complexities. Whether you grew up in the ‘90s or just appreciate strong storytelling, this film will pull at your heartstrings and stay with you long after the credits roll.

More Sony Pictures Classics on Netflix

We Grown Now isn’t the only Sony Pictures Classic available on Netflix. If you’re in the mood for more thought-provoking films, check out titles like:

Wicked Little Letters
The Peasants
Freud’s Last Session
The Teacher’s Lounge
Shortcomings

These films, much like We Grown Now, offer unique perspectives and rich narratives that engage both the mind and heart.

How to Watch ‘We Grown Now’ on Netflix

Starting October 3rd, 2024, We Grown Now will be available to stream exclusively on Netflix in the United States. Mark your calendars and make sure to check it out! Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt dramas or just looking for something new to watch, this film is a perfect choice.

Conclusion

We Grown Now is more than just a movie—it’s a reflection of life, friendship, and resilience in the face of adversity. With strong performances from a talented cast and a powerful story set in 1990s Chicago, this Sony Pictures Classic is set to make waves when it arrives on Netflix this October. Don’t miss the chance to witness a film that has already garnered critical acclaim and promises to be a standout hit.

Will you be watching We Grown Now? Let us know what you’re most excited about in the comments!

FAQs

When is We Grown Now coming to Netflix?
We Grown Now will be available to stream on Netflix starting October 3rd, 2024, in the United States.
Who directed We Grown Now?
Minhal Baig directed and wrote the movie.
What is We Grown Now about?
The film is set in 1990s Chicago and follows two best friends growing up in public housing while navigating life’s challenges.
Who stars in We Grown Now?
The cast includes Blake Cameron James, Gian Knight Ramirez, S. Epatha Merkerson, Lil Rel Howery, and Jurnee Smollett.
Is We Grown Now based on a true story?
While not directly based on a true story, the film reflects real-life experiences faced by many people growing up in public housing during the 1990s.