Sanaa Lathan takes on a powerful role in the BET+ film Young. Wild. Free., a drama that explores the complexities of single motherhood and mental health within the African American community. The film, which debuted at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, features Lathan as Janice, a single mother navigating the challenges of raising her son amidst personal struggles.
In an interview with Trey Mangum from Blavity’s Shadow and Act, Lathan expressed her enthusiasm for the role, highlighting how it differs from her previous characters. ‘Part of the reason why I was drawn to her is because she was such a different character than what I usually get cast in,’ Lathan explained. She emphasized the transformative nature of acting and her passion for portraying characters that diverge from her usual roles.
Lathan also discussed the broader implications of her character’s struggles, relating them to the experiences of many single mothers in America. ‘Her plight is the plight of so many women in America and I just love being able to reflect her journey back to all those single mothers out there that are struggling,’ she said. The film also addresses mental health issues, a topic Lathan feels is often overlooked in the African American community.
Young. Wild. Free. stars Algee Smith as Brandon, Janice’s son, who finds himself in a precarious situation when the girl he likes, Cassidy (played by Sierra Capri), confronts him dramatically. The film, directed by Thembi Banks and written by Banks, Juel Taylor, and Tony Rettenmaier, is now available for streaming on BET+.
