When Boundaries Blur, Hearts Break
Nina Stakz both directed and wrote Three, and the film is an indepth examination of modern relationships, exploring desire, trust, and the emotional boundaries that, once pushed, lead to unforeseen consequences. It is set in urban contemporary society where there is a constant battle between fantasy and reality and its emotional chaos once the two clash.
🎥 Plot Summary
Jayson Alexander, a renowned video game developer, and Tiffany LaCroix, a talented hairstylist, are happily engaged and living a comfortable life together. When Jayson turns 30, he expects Tiffany to surprise him with the gift of a menage a trois with his best friend, Ashley Clayton. Ashley is an unapologetic lesbian author who bare her mind in her books and is known for her works on sexuality and love.
With hesitation, Tiffany concedes, trying to fulfill Jayson’s fantasy and reigniting a spark in their relationship. However, this encounter sets off an emotional chain reaction. Ashley makes the first move by revealing a crush on Tiffany, thus, falling into a complex web of tangled emotions, interlaced friendships, love, and longing. Increasing jealousy and betrayal bring the three to the turning point of confronting their decisions; answering the fundamental questions of their relationships.
🎭 Cast and Performances
- Tresure Price as Tiffany LaCroix: She translates to the character Tiffany in the nuances of her internal strife of loyalty, curiosity, and self discovery.
- Christopher Deon as Jayson Alexander: Steps into the shoes of Jayson from a confident partner to a man who has to deal with the unintended consequences of his desires.
- Vanessa D. Fant as Ashley Clayton: Plays Ashley with a bold, but soft vulnerable heart character, making her relatable and yearn for connection.
- Devon Lewis as Naim Bates: Jayson’s business partner and friend offers a calm voice to the chaos of the unfolding drama.
- Khaja Mapp as Londyn Bates: Exposes the friend side of Tiffany with humor while providing subtle commentary in issues of contemporary relationships.
🔍 Symbolism & Themes
The Triangle as a Metaphor
The film does not use the threesome as a plot but instead embraces its complexity around desire, love and friendship. Each angle of the triangle shows a different aspect of relation and the resultant instability when balance is disturbed.
Exploration of Sexual Identity
Three embraces the fluidity of sexual identity through Ashley’s character and the conflict of truth in one’s identity, society, and the other existing relationships in life.
Consequences of Unspoken Emotions
It highlights the risk of unarticulated feelings and the need to communicate freely. The characters suffer due to their tendency to avoid addressing the reality of their feelings which results in pain and distress.
🎬 Visuals & Direction
Stakz blends photography and film as a means for expressing emotions, beautifully capturing the character interactions in close-ups shot in soft light to reflect the intensity of feeling. As in her own cinematography, Jamaal Scott captures the essence of being bound and tangled with others in relationships. This is enhanced by Michael D. Jones Sr.’s score which accompanies and intensifies the emotions of the film.
🎞️ Production Details
Director & Writer: Stakz Nina
Cinematography: Nina Stakz, Jamaal Scott
Score: Michael D. Jones Sr.
Language: English
Run Time: 106 Minutes
Released by: Onyx Theory Arts, Oakland Film & TV
Release Date: March 4th, 2024
Available on: Tubi, Fandango at Home, Pluto TV, Peacock Premium
📣 Reception & Cultural Impact
Three has triggered discourse regarding the stereotypes of LGBTQ+ identity in mainstream media and adapting to the intricacies of modern relationships. It is receiving mixed criticism, with some mentioning pacing issues while others commend the bold choices and powerful performances from the lead actors. The film has garnered a sustained following from streaming platforms, particularly from audiences who seek compelling and unfiltered romantic dramas.
📝 Final Words
Three straddles the boundaries of a deeper reflection and a candid exploration of intimacy, love, desire, and the intricacies that shape our relationships. It urges viewers not just to witness but consider their own commitments and confront the chilled truths along with the myriad consequences of what lies beneath our most fervent wishes.
