The documentary COLORS STRAIGHT UP spotlights a Los Angeles outreach organization that tries to help the "at-risk" children of Watts via the performing arts. So, what's not to like? Given that any movie--however utilitarian--hailing such a progressive social program will score points, the
virtue of COLORS STRAIGHT UP is that it's better than it needs to be.
Founded by bearlike character actor Phil Simms, Living Literature/Colors United spreads the message that kids from the ghetto and the barrio can find better outlets for their energy and frustration than vice or violence. Mostly black and Hispanic, students of Colors United must discard all
street-gang regali...
Released:
1997
Rated:
NR
Length:
92 mins