The Land (2016) Watch Online Free

Four teenage boys devote their summer to escaping the streets of Cleveland, Ohio, by pursuing a dream life of professional skateboarding. But when they get caught in the web of the local queenpin, their motley brotherhood is tested, threatening to make this summer their last.

The Land is a coming-of-age crime drama directed by Steven Caple Jr. The story is set in Cleveland, Ohio, and revolves around four teenage boys—Cisco, Junior, Patty Cake, and Boobie—who aspire to escape the confines of their troubled lives and break free from the harsh streets by becoming professional skateboarders. However, their lives take a dangerous turn when they get caught up in a heist involving a local crime queen, which sets them on a path that tests their loyalty to each other and their dreams.

The film explores themes of friendship, survival, and the harsh realities of life in a disenfranchised neighborhood. The teenagers, who see skateboarding as their way out, are drawn deeper into the world of crime, especially after they steal a car that belongs to a crime boss. Their ambition and innocence collide with the dangerous consequences of their actions, forcing them to navigate through their own moral dilemmas and complex relationships. The film’s plot intertwines skateboarding culture with street crime, creating a unique blend of youthful aspiration and gritty realism.

The performances of the cast, particularly Jorge Lendeborg Jr. as Cisco and Moisés Arias as Junior, are integral to the emotional depth of the film. The supporting cast, which includes Kim Coates and Erykah Badu, brings a layer of complexity to the story, with characters who offer both guidance and temptation to the young protagonists. The film’s pacing, while slow at times, allows viewers to deeply understand the emotional struggles the characters face.

10 Reasons to Watch The Land (2016)

1. Authentic portrayal of inner-city struggles: The film offers a raw and realistic depiction of the challenges faced by teenagers growing up in poverty-stricken neighborhoods, particularly in Cleveland. It doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities of life in the streets.
2. Strong performances: The performances of Jorge Lendeborg Jr. and Moisés Arias as the lead characters bring an emotional weight to the film. The supporting cast, including Erykah Badu and Michael K. Williams, adds depth to the story.
3. Skateboarding culture: For fans of skateboarding, the film offers an authentic look at the culture and the dreams of young skaters who see it as their escape from the struggles of their environment.
4. Emotional depth: Unlike typical crime dramas, The Land focuses on the emotional growth of its characters. The boys’ dreams and desires are relatable, making their journey poignant and heartfelt.
5. Social commentary: The film provides commentary on systemic issues like poverty, crime, and limited opportunities for young people in underprivileged communities. It sheds light on how these issues can shape their choices and futures.
6. Stylish direction: Steven Caple Jr.’s direction brings a fresh take to the coming-of-age genre. His ability to balance drama, action, and heartfelt moments sets The Land apart from other similar films.
7. Cinematic visuals: The film’s cinematography captures the gritty atmosphere of Cleveland and the contrast between the boys’ dreams and the reality they face. The skateboarding scenes are dynamic and visually engaging.
8. Music: With music produced by Nas, The Land features a strong soundtrack that complements its urban setting. The soundtrack adds a layer of authenticity, especially to the film’s emotional and dramatic moments.
9. Complex characters: The film doesn’t just focus on its protagonists but also explores the lives of the people around them, such as family members and local figures. This complexity makes the film feel more grounded.
10. Unexpected conclusion: The Land offers a refreshing and unexpected conclusion that sets it apart from typical narratives in crime dramas, providing a thought-provoking ending that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer.

How You’ll Feel After Watching The Land

Watching The Land will likely leave you with mixed emotions. On one hand, you’ll be deeply moved by the struggles of the characters, particularly their dreams and the harsh reality they face. The emotional depth of the film may evoke a sense of empathy for these young teens as they navigate the treacherous path between crime and their aspirations for something better.

However, the film’s portrayal of the consequences of their choices might also leave you with a sense of frustration, as the characters’ potential for a better life is continually threatened by the harsh environment they inhabit. There’s an underlying sadness to their story, highlighting how easily young dreams can be shattered by external circumstances. At the same time, the camaraderie and loyalty between the boys will resonate, leaving you with a bittersweet feeling about friendship and survival in tough situations.

Ultimately, The Land is an emotionally rich film that will make you reflect on the impact of environment, choices, and the pursuit of dreams. It offers an engaging and thought-provoking experience that is sure to leave an impression long after the credits roll. You may also be inspired by the characters’ resilience and their attempts to break free from their circumstances, even if they ultimately face a tragic end.

The movie was praised for its authentic depiction of the struggles faced by its characters

. It blends skateboarding with serious social issues and leaves the audience questioning the influence of environment on the choices people make