Nickel Boys director RaMell Ross uses the camera as a character

RaMell Ross delved into the adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Nickel Boys,” with a unique and valuable background. Being a Black man who was raised in the South, Ross possessed the necessary knowledge and experience to bring the story to the screen without extensive additional research. However, he did reference the non-fiction book “The Boys of the Dark” as a crucial starting point for his project. This book, along with Whitehead’s novel, was inspired by reports on the Dozier reform school in Florida, where numerous boys, mostly Black, were subjected to abuse and mistreatment.

In crafting his film, Ross drew inspiration from his own childhood experiences and personal insights. He approached the characters of Elwood and Turner, the protagonists of “Nickel Boys,” by incorporating elements from his own life into their narratives. This personal connection allowed him to create a more authentic and poignant portrayal of the characters and their struggles.

Despite being his first feature-length fictional film, Ross’s background in documentary filmmaking and photography proved to be invaluable in the creation of “Nickel Boys.” His meticulous attention to detail and unique perspective on camera work added depth and complexity to the storytelling. The film explores themes of voyeurism and subjectivity through innovative camera techniques, including using the camera as a stand-in for characters and experimenting with different perspectives.

One of the most striking aspects of “Nickel Boys” is Ross’s deliberate choice to depict violence offscreen, focusing instead on the characters’ reactions and emotions. By keeping the violence implied rather than explicitly shown, Ross invites the audience to engage with the characters on a deeper level and empathize with their experiences. This approach challenges traditional cinematic conventions and encourages viewers to reflect on the impact of violence and trauma.

Overall, Ross’s background and expertise shine through in “Nickel Boys,” creating a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that pushes the boundaries of storytelling. His unique perspective and innovative approach to filmmaking make “Nickel Boys” a standout piece of cinema that resonates long after the credits roll.