Meet the Cast of The Hate U Give Movie

Released on October 19, 2018
Drama Crime

The Hate U Give is a powerful and thought-provoking movie that explores the complexities of race, identity, and justice through the eyes of a 16-year-old girl named Starr Carter. Starr, played by the talented Amandla Stenberg, is a young African American woman who lives in a poverty-stricken neighborhood but attends a prestigious suburban prep school. This dichotomy between her two worlds creates a unique perspective for Starr, as she must navigate the challenges of being a minority in a predominantly white institution while also trying to maintain her roots in her community.

One of the central conflicts in the movie arises when Starr witnesses a police officer shoot her unarmed best friend, Khalil. The shooting is a traumatic event for Starr, and she is torn between her desire to speak out against the injustice she has witnessed and the fear of retaliation from both the police and her community. The movie does an excellent job of portraying the complexity of Starr's situation, as she grapples with the consequences of her actions and the impact they may have on her family and friends.

The film features a strong supporting cast, including Regina Hall as Starr's mother, Lisa Carter. Lisa is a devoted parent who wants the best for her children and is deeply concerned about the dangers they face in their neighborhood. She is a pillar of strength for Starr and her family, providing guidance and support as they navigate the aftermath of Khalil's shooting. The movie also features several other notable performances, including Russell Hornsby as Starr's father, Maverick Carter, and Common as a family friend and community activist. Overall, The Hate U Give is a powerful and moving film that challenges viewers to confront their own biases and consider the impact of systemic racism in our society.

Full Cast of The Hate U Give

Amandla Stenberg

as Starr Carter

Amandla Stenberg delivers a powerful and emotionally resonant performance as Starr Carter in 'The Hate U Give'. She expertly navigates the complexities of Starr's life, from her struggles with code-switching between her predominantly black neighborhood and her predominantly white private school, to her journey towards activism after witnessing the fatal shooting of her childhood friend by a police officer. Stenberg's portrayal is both nuanced and compelling, making 'The Hate U Give' a must-watch for anyone interested in timely and thought-provoking cinema.

Regina Hall

as Lisa Carter

Regina Hall delivers a powerful performance as Lisa Carter in 'The Hate U Give'. She beautifully portrays the complex emotions and struggles of a mother trying to protect her family in a world filled with racial tension and violence. Hall's nuanced acting allows the audience to empathize with Lisa's desire to keep her children safe while also encouraging them to stand up for what they believe in. Her performance adds depth and authenticity to the film, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in stories about family, justice, and the human experience.

Russell Hornsby

as Maverick Carter

In 'The Hate U Give', Russell Hornsby delivers a powerful and emotionally charged performance as Maverick Carter, the father of the film's protagonist, Starr. Hornsby's portrayal is nuanced and layered, capturing the complexities of a man who is both a loving father and a former gang member trying to provide a better life for his family. His performance is marked by a quiet intensity that is both commanding and heartbreaking, as he grapples with the harsh realities of systemic racism and violence in his community. Hornsby's performance is a standout in the film, adding depth and authenticity to the story's exploration of identity, race, and justice.

K.J. Apa

as Chris Bryant

K.J. Apa delivers a noteworthy performance as Chris Bryant in 'The Hate U Give'. Apa's portrayal of a well-meaning, privileged high school student grappling with his girlfriend's traumatic experience and the racial divide in their community is both genuine and impactful. His ability to embody the character's emotional turmoil and growth throughout the film adds depth to the story, making viewers empathize with Chris's struggle to understand his place in the larger societal context. Overall, Apa's performance is a testament to his acting skills and adds a layer of complexity to the film's narrative.

Common

as Uncle Carlos

Common delivers a standout performance as Uncle Carlos in 'The Hate U Give'. He brings a sense of warmth and stability to the character, making him a reliable and empathetic presence amidst the film's intense themes. Common's portrayal of a police officer who struggles to balance his loyalty to his profession with his love for his family adds depth and nuance to the narrative. His performance is a testament to his acting skills, as he effectively conveys the internal conflict and emotional turmoil of his character.

Anthony Mackie

as King

Anthony Mackie delivers a powerful performance as King in 'The Hate U Give'. As the leader of the local gang, King initially comes across as intimidating and ruthless. However, Mackie skillfully reveals the character's vulnerabilities and fears, making King a complex and multifaceted character. His performance is a standout in the film, adding depth and nuance to the story's exploration of race, identity, and social justice.