“Freestyle” is a 2023 Polish movie directed by Maciej Bochniak and written by Bochniak and Sławomir Shuty. The film stars Maciej Musiałowski as Diego, a young rapper who gets involved in a dangerous drug deal in order to raise money for his music career. The film also stars Nel Kaczmarek, Michał Sikorski, and Filip Lipiecki.
We are taken to the underworld in this film, seen through the eyes of a young protagonist, whose uncompromising drive to make it in the underground music scene takes him to less than desirable encounters. This is a story of young people who have chosen to live on the edge, pushing the limits to the point of breaking the law, motivated by their passion: music.
“Freestyle” is an engaging modern thriller that explores the world of drug trafficking, youth, and the desire to live life to the fullest. It is somewhat predictable in its approach and portrayal of the combination of elements and its outcome: trouble.
But it also offers a lot of entertainment.
Review of “Freestyle”
“Freestyle” strives to be, or at least to appear to be, as realistic as possible. It employs a handheld camera style and features genuine and natural performances. The film aims to transport us to a specific style, situation, and above all, a way of life: rap and the dangerous environment that surrounds this music, at least in this story. Yes, it does come across as one big cliché.
It has a fast pace, with actors who command the screen with their presence and performances, and there is a lot of movement both in terms of camera work and editing. The film adopts a fresh, direct, and realistic style that is (or appears not to be) neither moralistic nor didactic. It simply shows what exists and the lives of these young people, without overly judging the world the characters find themselves in, and without justifying anything. Above all, it maintains a very suitable narrative rhythm for this story.
Although it is appropriate, the film does not surprise in terms of style or story. It is not the first story of its kind that we have seen, and it won’t be the last, with almost identical plotlines and situations, along with similar characters and performances in a story that repeats itself, this time in Krakow.
“Freestyle” takes more risks in terms of its rhythmic sense rather than its aesthetics, and that’s where it captivates and succeeds – in its musical, “insider”, realistic sense, and with that “free style” that gives the film its title.
Our Opinion
“Freestyle” is an entertaining crime thriller that is quite well-executed, and counts on actors who give it their all to tell a story that, although quite it is engaging, will not be remembered for its originality.
Release Date
September 13, 2023
Where to Watch Freestyle
The Cast
Maciej Musiałowski
Polish actor Maciej Musiałowski has quickly emerged as a rising star in the world of cinema. With his remarkable talent and captivating performances, Musiałowski has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Born on December 5, 1993, in Warsaw, Poland, Musiałowski’s journey in the acting industry has been nothing short of remarkable. Read more
