History of Nickel Boys in Timeline

Nickel Boys, a 2024 historical drama film adapted from Colson Whitehead's novel, portrays the harrowing experiences of Elwood and Turner, two Black teenagers unjustly sent to the Nickel Academy, a brutal reform school in 1960s Florida. The film, directed by RaMell Ross and starring Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson, exposes the systemic abuse and racism prevalent within the institution, drawing inspiration from the real-life Dozier School for Boys. Elwood's unwavering belief in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s teachings clashes with Turner's cynical worldview, creating a compelling dynamic as they navigate the horrors of Nickel. The film explores themes of racial injustice, resilience, and the lasting impact of trauma.

1962: Setting and Backstory

The story is set in Tallahassee, Florida, during the Jim Crow era of 1962, focusing on Elwood Curtis and his upbringing.

2019: Publication of the Novel "The Nickel Boys"

Colson Whitehead's novel "The Nickel Boys," the basis for the film, was published in 2019.

2019: Novel Publication

The source material for the film, Colson Whitehead's novel, was published in 2019.

October 2022: Film Adaptation Announced and Casting

In October 2022, the film adaptation was announced, with RaMell Ross as director and casting beginning.

December 2022: Principal Photography Completion

Principal photography for the film concluded in Louisiana in December 2022, with a budget of $23.2 million.

2022: Filming of Nickel Boys

The filming for "Nickel Boys" took place in Louisiana in late 2022, shot in first-person point of view.

August 30, 2024: Premiere at Telluride Film Festival

"Nickel Boys" premiered at the Telluride Film Festival on August 30, 2024.

September 27, 2024: New York Film Festival Opening

"Nickel Boys" opened the 62nd New York Film Festival on September 27, 2024, at Alice Tully Hall.

October 25, 2024: Original Release Date in New York

The film was initially slated for a limited release in New York City on October 25, 2024.

December 13, 2024: Limited Theatrical Release

The film had a limited release in theaters on December 13, 2024, by Amazon MGM Studios.

2024: Critical Acclaim and Recognition

"Nickel Boys" received positive reviews and accolades in 2024, with praise from filmmakers like Barry Jenkins.

2024: Sight & Sound Recognition

Sight & Sound ranked "Nickel Boys" tenth on their list of the top 50 movies of 2024.

2024: Nickel Boys Film Release

The historical drama film "Nickel Boys," based on Colson Whitehead's novel, was released in 2024.

January 3, 2025: UK Release

"Nickel Boys" was released in the United Kingdom on January 3, 2025, by Curzon Film.

January 2025: Box Office Gross Update

As of January 2025, the film grossed $1.5 million globally.

Mentioned in this timeline

Florida a southeastern U S state is a peninsula between...

Colson Whitehead is a celebrated American novelist known for his...

September is the ninth month of the year in the...