The Fits

Oscilloscope | Release Date: June 3, 2016

6.6	USER SCORE Generally favorable reviews based on 55 Ratings

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jmccafferyJul 30, 2016

The Fits is an understated, poetic look at growing up as a young girl. The film requires physical performances from its cast; dialogue is sparse, and often we are thrown in the middle of conversations that put context to the plot. We see theThe Fits is an understated, poetic look at growing up as a young girl. The film requires physical performances from its cast; dialogue is sparse, and often we are thrown in the middle of conversations that put context to the plot. We see the characters practice their craft and move through the community center that these young, inner city kids occupy. The camera stays on the main character, Toni, who is trying to move from the lone, masculine sport of boxing to a communal, feminine dance team. The creators used non-professional actors to give the film authenticity, while still providing a hint of strangeness in the plot. While it didn't completely hold my attention the whole time, it is rich with subtext while providing a complete and special vision.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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AquaMorphAug 23, 2016

The fact that a move as repetitive and opened ended as the Fits is still engrossing is a testament to the director's skill at filmmaking. The performances in this movie are great especially considering how young a lot of the cast is. The lookThe fact that a move as repetitive and opened ended as the Fits is still engrossing is a testament to the director's skill at filmmaking. The performances in this movie are great especially considering how young a lot of the cast is. The look of the film is unique which is quite amazing since it is set in such a dull and uninteresting environment. The cinematographer did an excellent job. The sound design and score lend to the tone of this film and really make the film. All in all this is an worthwhile way to spend 70 minutes.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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GarrettSmithSep 1, 2016

The best ending of 2016.
A film of sublime tranquility and not for those without patience.
It's not a film for everyone, but for those who give it a chance, it will at least stay with you long after it's over.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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IndiefilmloverJul 1, 2016

In an era of movies dominated by remakes, reboots and generic by-the-numbers filmmaking, it is so refreshing to see a movie like, "The Fits." Unlike typical Hollywood fare, "The Fits" assumes the audience has some intelligence and doesn'tIn an era of movies dominated by remakes, reboots and generic by-the-numbers filmmaking, it is so refreshing to see a movie like, "The Fits." Unlike typical Hollywood fare, "The Fits" assumes the audience has some intelligence and doesn't need every detail to be explained completely. The film also utilizes a distinctive visual style that immerses you into the world of the protagonist. It also sets the location in a very specific place (Cincinnati, Ohio).

The film is essentially a character study of Toni (played by newcomer Royalty Hightower), a tom boy who spends her free time in the boxing gym with her brother. During one of her training sessions, she becomes intrigued by a dance company that practices nearby. In a typical Hollywood movie, the story would be about how Toni struggles to blend in with the group and would culminate with her helping the girls win the big competition, but not here. Like many films of the American New Wave or early West African Cinema, "The Fits" is less concerned about the machinations of a conventional Hollywood narrative and focuses instead on Toni's journey of self-discovery.

Throughout the movie, the camera focuses almost entirely on Toni. This is most evident in the dance rehearsal scenes where the adult characters in particular, are kept mostly in the background. A viewer's appreciation for this film is directly proportional to how interested you are in the life of an 11 year old black girl. If you are, the film is immensely satisfying and thought-provoking. If not, you'll quickly become bored and frustrated with the movie.

A lot has been made of Royalty Hightower's performance. She is very photogenic and meets the physical and emotional demands of the material very well. However, she is not the only reason to watch this movie. Alexis Neblett as Beezy, one of the new girls with dance company is also a joy to watch. She brings an energy and youthful exuberance to her performance, that one doesn't often see in standard Hollywood fare. Significantly, the kids in "The Fits" look and act like real youngsters, not a Hollywood version of them. At least some of the credit must go to first-time director Anna Rose Holmer to eliciting some fine performances from her cast.

Another striking aspect about "The Fits" is its score by Danny Bensi and Saunder Jurriaans. Minimalist in many respects, the score is highly effective and even menacing at times. Overall, the film is technically well-made.

"The Fits" is clearly not for every one. If the mention of the latest Hollywood reboot excites you or if you're looking for a movie with predictable plot points, you're best to look elsewhere. However, if you're looking for a film that allows you to think and feel for yourself, "The Fits" is definitely worth a look. Just remember to approach the film with an open mind.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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mstaub87Apr 13, 2023

the film is definitely not for everyone, but if you need to relax and even meditate, it's worth watching without any doubts

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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