Written by Isabella Baute Arboleda
The new Netflix film Ruth & Boaz, inspired by the biblical story of Ruth, delivers a beautiful and emotional story that is sure to touch your heart.
The film follows Ruth (Serayah McNeill), a woman who has faced significant hardships in her life, including being abandoned by her mother. Despite her struggles, Ruth chooses to remain loyal to her mother-in-law, Naomi (Phylicia Rashad) after Marlon — Naomi’s son and husband — passes away.
Naomi, with only her house in Tennessee left, and Ruth, a singer escaping the music industry in Atlanta, set out to start a new life together. In Tennessee, Ruth meets Boaz (Tyler Lepley), a kind man who treats her with respect and care. Their relationship gradually evolves into a romantic connection filled with love.
The acting in this movie is outstanding as all the actors deliver impressive performances, particularly the three leads – McNeil, Rashad and Lepley. McNeil’s performance showcases Ruth’s strength, bravery, emotions, and caring nature. You can genuinely feel her pain as well as her courage. Lepley’s portrayal is natural and gentle; from the very beginning, his quiet interest in Ruth is evident, demonstrating true respect for her.
Their on screen chemistry feels smooth and authentic. Rashad’s performance evokes the range of emotions inside of Naomi — reflecting her sadness over her losses. As the film progresses, it’s heartwarming to witness her growing affection for Ruth, whom she begins to see as a daughter. The strong connections among the three characters make the story impactful, allowing viewers to empathize with their experiences.
One of the film’s strengths is the portrayal of relationships. The friendship between Ruth and Naomi feels genuine, and their bond evolves gradually throughout the movie. This connection illustrates how powerful love and support can be, even in challenging times. Meanwhile, the romance between Ruth and Boaz develops in a calm and touching manner; it unfolds organically, as two individuals with their own struggles find understanding in one another.
Ruth & Boaz is a lovely romantic movie that evokes feelings of happiness, emotion, and hope. It explores themes of love, loyalty, and finding light in dark times. With great performances and a relatable story, it comes highly recommended for this month, ideal for a relaxing day spent enjoying ice cream and falling in love with a story that truly makes your heart feel full.
