What the public reads on the synopsis for this film below does not even capture the amount of “danger and chaos” in small town Ohio. Speaking for myself, there was nothing in the early scenes in the film that indicate what kind of danger is forthcoming after the protagonist moves to a town where he has some family members. What happens soon after he arrives to stay with his cousin jolted me in my theater chair and became even more intense as the story continues. This film is noted to be an action, drama, thriller film, but viewers be aware this is an R rated film. Some people would not be wrong to say “horror”.
Synopsis (IMDb)
An ex-military convict seeks a fresh start in a small town, but his past catches up as he finds love amid danger and chaos.
Directed and written by RZA, One Spoon of Chocolate combines social critique with revenge action. It will appeal to fans of certain thrillers, though not all movie audiences will be open to seeing what goes on in this town.
Unique (Shameik Moore, voice of Miles Morales from Spider-Man: Into the Spider – Verse, Dope), an ex-military veteran and recently released convict, seeks a fresh start, including a move to a small Ohio town where his cousin lives. Violence erupts on the first evening out in the town. Soon after, Unique notices a pattern of young Black men disappearing. This includes his cousin. The small town does not like him asking questions as they don’t want their corruption to be exposed. That corruption is rampant in the community of law enforcement and families who have created a market that is very lucrative with the help of the one local doctor.
Shameik Moore’s performance is intense, calm until provoked and it does not take much to get a reaction from him. There may not be an extensive back story to his childhood, military and prison life, but his performance informs the audience it has not been an easy life, and he does not back down.
The music and cinematography effectively heighten tension and contains the soundtrack composed by Tyler Bates. Brandon Cox captures some scenes that are close, showing the results of the violence inflicted on the characters.
Cast: RJ Cyler, Paris Jackson, Blair Underwood among the many supporting cast.
The film premiered at the Tribeca Festival on June 8, 2025, and is now available in limited theaters on May 1, 2026.
Source: 36 Cinema Distribution
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