Lost Soulz opened up this year’s Houston Cinema Arts Festival. We’ve been hearing so much about the film since its buzz at Tribecca, so we were so excited to check it out!

Written and directed by Katherine Propper, the film includes an ensemble cast that includes Sauve Sidle, Siyanda Stillwell, Aaron “Seven” Melloul, Krystall Poppin, Alexander Brackney, Micro TDH, Malachi Mabson, and Tauran Ambroise.

The film follows aspiring rapper Sol (Suave Sidle) who lives with his best friend and manager, Wesley (Siyanda Stillwell). The two attend a party where Sol first shows off his skills as a musician. After his melodic performance, we are then introduced to an energizing group of hip-hop artists he soon befriends. This party ends up being raided by police, and that is when Sol is confronted with the choice of leaving what he knows behind. Despite discovering Wesley has overdosed, without hesitation, Sol joins the group on their road trip tour of Texas. The journey is filled with music, budding friendships and conflicts.

First and foremost, the film’s shines when it comes to the music, which is no surprise considering the cast of musicians. The ensemble cast feels authentic and really represents the bonds that music can create. While I did enjoy the music, I do feel like it took over the film quite a lot, leading to a more music video feel. Sol’s actions are often led by his guilt of leaving behind Wesley, and I feel like this aspect could have been further explored (however, its saved by the film’s ending). There were also some moments in the film where we were introduced to things that got set to the side. I also found myself wanting to know more about these characters, despite spending so much of the film with them.

As I mentioned earlier, the film is really brought together with its ending. I found myself on the verge of tears with Sol’s reunion with Wesley’s mom and sister. Overall, this is a film about finding yourself and family, and it’s intertwined through the power of music. It’s a film more on the “vibe” side, so if you’re into that, definitely check it out!

We give Lost Soulz a 4/5.