It's not even Thursday, but I'm about to launch you guys back in time with a Movie Review Throwback of my favorite 2014 Movie, Beyond The Lights, starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Nate Parker. 'Beyond The Lights' is four years old at this point, but it's a modern adaptation following the story of an up-and-coming R&B singer, Noni, who struggles with self-image and being perceived as something that the simple is not deep down. Not only does it capture her difficulty in obtaining a positive self-image and learning to love herself, but it also follows a love story between her and a young police officer who saves her life in several different ways, both physically and mentally.

Noni, the main character, just wants her voice to be heard- and sure, she is heard by plenty on stage, but the words that she says are not truly her own. Noni has her own secret wants and desires for her music, but the music that she wants to produce simply isn't up to society- or her publicist's- standards. They try to shape her image as one of beauty and confidence and lust when deep down, she is a naturally beautiful person who has a good soul and wants to share meaningful lyrics and music with the world, not just backtrack a rapper who's lyrics essentially are nothing but gibberish and female deprivation.

Noni's life is saved when a young police officer and 'wannabe' Politician 'sees her' for the first tie like nobody else ever has. After a scary accident after obtaining her first award for her music video, Noni feels worthless and risks her own life in the worst way- Covering a late night 'babysitting' shift that is desired by no other cap, a young man named Kaz saves Noni's life and see's her for who she really is- not just a toy in the world of stages, production, and fakeness.

Not only is the story one to remember, but so is the soundtrack. Featuring ballads like 'Fly Before You Fall' by Cynthia Erivo, the music in Beyond The Lights is touching, compelling, and catchy. It absolutely tops the movie off, with both peaceful and exciting R&B's.

The movie follows the love story of Kaz and Noni, while simultaneously bringing out a new light in Noni's life and changing herself and the world for the better. It'a story of heartbreak, falling in love, self-image, acceptance, and learning to be proud of the person that you are and fall in love with the real, not the fake.

Beyond The Lights may be a couple of years old, but it is a story that will stay with me forever, and I urge you to browse your Netflix account next time you need a relaxing night and give it a try for yourself. You won't be disappointed!