What the public reads in the synopsis below does not even capture the level of “danger and chaos” in small-town Ohio. Speaking for myself, there was nothing in the early scenes of the film that indicated the kind of danger that would come after the protagonist moved to a town where he had family members. What happens soon after he arrives to stay with his cousin jolted me in my theater chair and became even more intense as the story continues. This film is noted as an action, drama, and thriller, but viewers should be aware that it is rated R. Some people would not be wrong to say “horror”.
Synopsis (IMDb)
An ex-military convict seeks a fresh start in a small town, but his past catches up to him as he finds love amid danger and chaos.
Directed and written by RZA, One Spoon of Chocolate combines social critique with revenge action. It will appeal to fans of certain thrillers, though not all moviegoers will be open to what goes on in this town.
Unique (Shameik Moore, voice of Miles Morales in Spider-Man: Into the Spider–Verse, Dope), an ex-military veteran and recently released convict, seeks a fresh start, including a move to a small Ohio town where his cousin lives. Violence erupts on the first evening out in the town. Soon after, Unique notices a pattern of young Black men disappearing. This includes his cousin. The small town doesn’t like him asking questions because they don’t want their corruption exposed. Corruption is rampant in the law enforcement community and among families who have created a very lucrative market with the help of one local doctor.
Shameik Moore’s performance is intense, calm until provoked, and it does not take much to get a reaction from him. There may not be an extensive backstory to his childhood, military service, and prison life, but his performance suggests it has not been an easy life, and he does not back down.
The music and cinematography effectively heighten tension, with the soundtrack composed by Tyler Bates. Brandon Cox captures close-up scenes that show the effects of the violence inflicted on the characters.
Cast: RJ Cyler, Paris Jackson, and Blair Underwood, among the many supporting cast.
The film premiered at the Tribeca Festival on June 8, 2025, and is now available in limited theaters on May 1, 2026.
Source: 36 Cinema Distribution