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It’s often been said that while we are free to make our own choices, we can’t choose the consequences that accompany them. Armageddon Time is all about making those life-altering decisions. Released at the end of last year with little fanfare, James Gray’s melancholy, semi-autobiographical, coming-of-age drama is definitely worth another look.

Writer/director James Gray’s Armageddon Time begins in New York City’s Public School 173, 1980, sixth grade for Paul Graff. Gray immediately immerses viewers in classroom interaction which establishes Paul’s personality and his friendship with Johnny Davis, a Black fellow student. The racism that pervades the film’s developments also rears its ugly head immediately through teacher Mr. Turkeltaub.