The Photograph 2020

As Billy’s lens captures Christina’s palpable unease, we embark on a poignant journey through her past, transitioning from the dazzling lights of New York City to the serene bayous of Louisiana. Once a small-town girl from the Pelican State, she grapples with the intricacies of urban life as a single mother, striving to balance her professional aspirations with her struggles in romantic relationships.

Fast forwarding to the present day, Michael becomes intrigued by Isaac’s poignant display of framed photographs gracing his mantle. Amidst the rustic charm of Louisiana’s inviting roadsides, he is captivated by the tale surrounding a stunning young woman who has left an imprint on Isaac’s life. The old man’s melancholic tone coupled with a brief mention of Christina sets the stage for a narrative that unfolds like a carefully assembled puzzle.

In a different part of town, Mae (Issa Rae), a composed and sophisticated woman, enters a bank and explores a safe deposit box filled with cherished mementos. Among the clutter of papers and photographs, one image resonates — an unframed picture of the same enchanting young woman whose story Isaac had tenderly recounted.

As Michael returns to his work routine in New York, he is approached by Andy (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), an eager intern frustrated by their boss’s lack of assignments. Michael sympathizes with him and requests Andy to track down Christina, igniting a series of events that will lead him to the intriguing Mae.

Their initial meeting is characterized by warmth and honesty as they share their common experiences of being single. Mae confides in Michael about a recent loss, revealing that her mother had penned a heartfelt letter — the same letter Michael had previously discovered in the safe deposit box. Their conversation seamlessly flows from simple pleasantries to deeper discussions, culminating in a promise to stay connected.

In this fleeting moment, we witness two individuals from contrasting backgrounds brought together by their struggles and a shared interest in the mysteries surrounding them. As they go their separate ways, Michael and Mae leave behind an air of hope and possibility, their lives forever entwined by fate and Christina’s captivating presence.

With Michael’s thoughts drifting back in time, he immerses himself in a recorded conversation with the enigmatic Isaac (Rob Morgan). Simultaneously, Mae revisits her mother’s poignant letter, stirring memories of a bygone era.

In a nostalgic flashback, we witness young Christina and Isaac, their love luminous as they stroll hand in hand, capturing tender moments through her lens. Christina’s passion for photography shines as she develops pictures of him in a makeshift darkroom. One fateful night, Christina confides in Isaac her desire to visit New Orleans, but he hesitates, ultimately yielding to her wishes. Upon returning home from their night out, Christina faces her mother’s disapproving glare, receiving a scathing critique of her choice in boyfriend. Yet, the encounter concludes with a gentle goodnight kiss from her mother.

In the present, Mae finds herself seated next to Louis (Courtney B. Vance), her mother’s partner, at a park bench, both absorbed in their thoughts. Mae shares her feelings about her mother’s letters, illustrating the emotional distance caused by an abandoning parental figure. She expresses her deep-seated desire to avoid emulating her mother’s behavior.

Michael and Andy devise a plan to attend a French film screening at the Queens Museum, where Michael is hopeful of crossing paths with Mae, the curator. As they enter the bustling space, their eyes meet, yet Mae is quickly distracted by museum guests, leaving them to reunite post-screening. Mae and her friend Rachel (Jasmine Cephas Jones) engage in lively conversation about Michael and Andy, with Rachel eager to guide Andy, ultimately allowing Mae and Michael to connect.

Over drinks, they share their first-date misadventures, playfully teasing each other about their similar music tastes (Drake and Kendrick Lamar). Michael tentatively poses the question about whether it’s too early for a kiss. As the evening progresses, they give in to their attraction, sharing a romantic moment in a cozy restaurant booth.

The next day, as Mae confides in Rachel, we learn that Michael wasted no time reaching out after their drink date, endearingly referring to Mae as “special.”

In another flashback, Christina, dressed impeccably, informs her mother about her plans for an overnight excursion to New Orleans with Isaac and friends. Her mother’s disappointment rains upon her, criticizing Isaac’s financial prospects and Christina’s photography dreams. The harsh words resonate deeply, fueling Christina’s resolve to venture solo to New Orleans. There, immersed in the city’s vibrant jazz scene, Isaac proposes, but she gently declines, expressing her need for independence. Though disheartened, he remains patient and affectionate as they share an intimate night in their hotel.

As morning breaks, Christina is engulfed by melancholy, the weight of impending changes heavy on her mind. Meanwhile, Michael visits his brother Kyle’s (Y’lan Noel) cozy home, meeting his loving wife and two adorable daughters. Having moved on from Tessa, Michael expresses his excitement about a job interview at the Associated Press in London, hinting at a desire for change.

Mae’s sudden text invigorates Michael, prompting him to abandon work duties and meet her at the museum. As they grab their belongings, news of an approaching hurricane disrupts their plans, with Mae’s home in the evacuation zone. They take refuge in her sleek apartment, enjoying cocktails and vinyl records. The conversation turns intimate as Mae questions Michael about fidelity, leading to Michael’s confession of a past relationship with a married woman.

As the storm outside intensifies, a power outage sparks their unexpressed desires, and they yield to their chemistry. Later, with the weather easing slightly, they head to Kyle’s home, welcomed warmly by his family. The atmosphere fills with camaraderie; while the women engage in effortless chats, Michael and Kyle seize a private moment. Kyle senses an unmistakable spark of longing in Michael’s gaze, emphasizing the unexpected depth of Michael’s newfound feelings.

Meanwhile, the young daughters, Sophia and Sandrine, share stories about Tessa, piquing Mae’s curious interest when they innocently note her striking resemblance to Tessa. The girls’ hesitation about delving deeper hints at a sensitive subject best left untouched.

As night falls and the storm rages, Michael and Mae find themselves sheltered at Kyle’s, confronting both the tempest outside and their burgeoning connection within. Mae is drawn back to her mother’s letter, prompting reflections on the past. A poignant flashback reveals Christina and Isaac’s relationship, held back by desires for something greater.

Upon waking the next morning, Michael discovers Mae absorbed in her mother’s letter. With the storm behind them, they step into the fresh morning air, the tranquility broken only by the distant hum of city life. Mae inquires about Tessa, leading Michael to recount their breakup.

As they turn inward, Mae reveals her feelings about having nobody in her life—if not for some… unresolved feelings. Michael shares plans about his impending London trip while Mae aims to mend her family’s past through the discovery of her mother’s secrets.

Moving forward in the memory, Christina stands at the threshold of a new chapter, fueled by ambition and the pursuit of creative expression. She lands a role as an assistant photographer, eager to infuse the position with vigor. A phone call to Denise about her time in New Orleans signifies the enduring bonds of companionship. When Denise sorrowfully informs Christina about her passing, a solemn realization settles over them. At the funeral, Christina experiences an epiphany—her mother knew her time was limited, shielding her from heartbreaking truths about mortality.

As Christina navigates her past, a chance encounter with Isaac and his new wife heightens the sting of what could have transpired, a painful reminder that her identity is intricately entwined with memories of Isaac.

Fast forward to the present, Mae confronts her family’s past, finishing her mother’s letter. The unearthing of a sealed envelope found in Christina’s safe deposit box propels Mae toward Louisiana, seeking Isaac to convey her mother’s final words.

As Mae shares her journey with Isaac, a mutual understanding dawns as they recognize the weight of long-buried secrets. His hesitance about learning the truth reveals an unspoken fear that has guided his choices down a divergent path. A simple meal of boiled crab becomes a poignant reminder of human connection.

However, Mae’s attempts to reconnect with Michael in Louisiana meet disappointment as he remains out of reach, weighing down on her heart, burdened by her mother’s legacy.

In London, Michael raises a toast to his new job with his brother, excited about a brief return to Louisiana to conclude his writing task while secretly hoping for an unanticipated reunion with Mae.

Upon reaching Louisiana, Michael is startled to see Mae coming from Isaac’s residence. She explains her previous attempt to reach him, guiding him to explore Christina’s darkroom. Their paths entwined again, they find an extraordinary moment as they stroll through the vibrant streets of New Orleans. Fate plays its hand as they enter the very jazz club where Isaac and Christina once shared memories. With champagne and slow dances, they savor the present’s enchantment.

But good moments often face endings. As Michael prepares to leave, he shares his decision to relocate to London, leaving Mae with bittersweet wisdom about long-distance relationships. Yet, they promise to cherish the time spent and memories made.

After Michael’s departure, Mae takes time in Louisiana to reconnect with Isaac, reflecting alongside him over Christina’s letter. The revelation of Christina’s mature love for her partner, devoid of romance but rich in the bonds of nurturance, casts a profound illumination on both.

Back in New York, Mae confides in Rachel about Andy’s revelations. Bursting with raw emotion, she reflects on her feelings for Michael, admitting, “I wanted you to stay,” as unspoken desires linger in the air.

As Michael receives a farewell party, Andy’s promotion, thanks to Michael’s recommendation, serves as a poignant reminder that meaningful connections can transcend time and distance.

In the subsequent days, Mae immerses herself into preparing her mother’s photographs for a museum showcase. Delving into Christina’s videotaped interview from earlier, an inspiring art installation emerges—a symphony of screens, relaying heartfelt wisdom on love and longing.

Meanwhile, as Michael navigates his new life in London, a ray of sunshine pierces through his mundane routine. A letter arrives on his desk, adorned with Mae’s handwriting, containing a ticket to a Kendrick Lamar concert and an affectionate note. His mundane blues uplift, curiosity bubbles over, and anticipation grows.

As night approaches, attending the concert fills Michael with excitement leading him to the venue, where he finds Mae waiting, her eyes shimmering in the twilight. Their joyful embrace signifies the unwavering bond they share. In a torrential flow of heartfelt conversation, Mae compassionately unburdens her emotions about longing and connection. Her desire for authenticity in their bond, independent of circumstance, resonates with Michael deeply.

As Mae speaks, emotions surge within Michael, culminating in an electrifying, tender kiss that leaves them both breathless. In that fleeting moment, the universe conspires in perfect harmony, affirming the strength of their friendship while hinting at the adventures that lay before them.