Yelling to the Sky

The film opens with Sweetness O'Hara happily riding her bicycle with a friend. This lighthearted moment reflects her carefree spirit, showcasing the joy of youth before the plot takes a darker turn.

Sweetness's joy is abruptly disrupted when the local bully Latonya and her gang begin to torment her. A challenge is issued: if Sweetness cannot outrun Latonya's boyfriend to a nearby tree, he will take her beloved bike.

As the confrontation escalates and Sweetness is forcefully knocked down, her older sister Ola arrives just in time. Ola delivers a fierce beating to the bullies, showcasing the protective bond between the sisters.

Back at home, the atmosphere is tense as Sweetness and Ola witness a fiery argument between their parents, Lorene and Gordon. This fight culminates in Lorene abruptly leaving, setting the stage for further family turmoil.

Despite the initial peace Sweetness finds with her sister, this tranquility is shattered when Gordon returns home in a rage. Ola's decision to move in with her boyfriend leaves Sweetness to brave Gordon's aggression alone.

Months pass, and both Ola and their mother Lorene return to the family home, each carrying their own burdens. This reunion highlights the shifting dynamics within the family, deepening Sweetness's feelings of instability.

Sweetness confides in Ola about her intense dislike for their father, Gordon. This discussion occurs during a family gathering following the death of Gordon's estranged brother, which both brings them together and exposes their unresolved issues.

A pivotal confrontation arises when Sweetness expresses her desire to wear makeup to school. Gordon's extreme disapproval ignites a violent clash, igniting Sweetness’s determination to take control of her life.

Determined to support her family, Sweetness begins using drugs and sells them under Roland's guidance. Drawn deeper into this world, she finds herself increasingly estranged from her earlier life values and friendships.

A confrontation between Sweetness and Latonya escalates, resulting in Sweetness's suspension from school. This marked a significant turning point in their rivalry, illuminating the divergent paths they are taking in life.

Things take a dangerous turn during a botched drug deal where Sweetness is disrespected by a dealer. This encounter leads her to a heart-wrenching realization of the risks she has been taking and the potential consequences.

Sweetness is devastated by the drive-by shooting that claims Roland's life, leaving her to navigate the guilt associated with the events that led up to this tragedy. This profound loss forces Sweetness to reflect on her choices and the life she is leading.

In the aftermath of Roland's death, Sweetness spirals deeper into emotional turmoil. Seeking comfort, she heads to a party with Ola, where reckless behavior leads to the total loss of Ola's car, forcing Sweetness to confront her poor decisions.

In a surprising change of tone, Gordon offers support to Sweetness as she heals from her injuries. Despite this gesture, Sweetness remains emotionally distant, unsure how to reconcile her feelings toward her father.

Sweetness takes significant steps toward her future by applying for college and seeking peace with Latonya. In a poignant moment of reconciliation, she and her father embrace, hinting at the potential for healing in their fractured relationship.