PG-13, 1 HR., 56 MINS

From Gina Prince-Bythewood, director of Love and Basketball, comes Beyond the Lights, the emotional rollercoaster of pop star Noni played by actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Noni has been working her entire life to have the life she has now, she wears designer clothes, has a rock star boyfriend and a promising music career, but under the surface is a young woman who is plagued by feelings of doubt and loneliness.

After being rescued from a suicide attempt by police officer Kaz, played by Nate Parker, Noni has to decide whether she likes the person she is becoming and if she is willing to sacrifice her happiness for a sky-rocketing career. Noni and Kaz begin a whirlwind love affair that is both admired and scrutinized by the public. Both Noni’s and Kaz’s families are wary of the two’s relationship but the couple looks to each other to find a safe place away from the peering eyes of the paparazzi.

Watching the rise, fall and rise again of Noni is an emotional and heartfelt journey. The drama has elements of fun but shows how grueling it can be to climb your way back from rock bottom.