Higher Learning

Kristen Connor and Malik Williams arrive at Columbus University, excited to immerse themselves in campus life. They quickly become entangled in a vibrant party atmosphere, marking the beginning of their college journey.

At a lively gathering hosted by Fudge White, a passionate Afrocentric activist, tensions rise when Remy, a reserved freshman, interrupts to report a noise complaint. This act ignites outrage among the partying students, highlighting underlying racial divides on campus.

Kristen meets Taryn, an openly lesbian junior, who offers her friendship and advises her about the dangers of being alone at night. This moment marks a significant development in Kristen’s social circle as Taryn invites her to join a student organization.

Both Kristen and Malik enroll in a political science course taught by Professor Maurice Phipps. This class becomes a pivotal setting for their discussions on identity and self-exploration amidst the turbulent social climate of the university.

A dark turn occurs when Billy, a reckless fraternity member, assaults Kristen after she refuses to engage in unprotected sex. This traumatic event leaves Kristen reeling, exposing the vulnerability of students navigating campus life.

Kristen's distress becomes evident to her roommate, Monet, who is later confronted by Billy during an upsetting phone call filled with racial slurs. Fueled by anger for her friend, Monet seeks support from Fudge and other black students.

Fudge organizes a confrontation with Billy at a fraternity party, where he is called out for his actions. Although he offers an insincere apology to Monet, the gravity of Kristen’s trauma is glaringly overlooked by those around her.

As Kristen confides in Taryn about her trauma, their relationship flourishes and begins to develop romantic feelings. However, she also finds herself drawn back to Wayne, complicating her emotional landscape.

Remy’s frustration towards the perceived injustices of Fudge and the campus atmosphere leads him to seek out a new roommate in David Isaacs. This change further isolates him from the campus community, escalating his tension.

Amidst personal challenges, Malik faces harsh critiques from Professor Phipps that force him to confront his academic limitations. With the support of Deja, his girlfriend, he commits to improving his performance in school.

Remy’s simmering hatred explodes into violence as he brandishes a gun at Malik and David during a confrontation. This act of aggression signals a heartbreaking shift in his character and the escalating tension on campus.

Encouraged by his neo-Nazi companions, Remy orchestrates a tragic attack on a peace festival organized by Kristen and Monet, which results in Deja being caught in the chaos. This devastating event shocks the campus community.

After the attack, Malik is consumed by grief and confronts Remy, only to be met with brutal police intervention. This encounter illustrates the harsh realities of racial violence and the complexities of justice on campus.

In the aftermath of the violence and isolation from his peers, Remy succumbs to despair and takes his own life. His tragic end serves as a chilling reminder of the consequences of hatred and division.

In a poignant moment, Malik shares a meaningful discussion with Kristen near a defaced Christopher Columbus statue. They reflect on the heavy consequences of choices made, reinforcing a sense of unity and hope amidst their grief.