Reem is the savvy promoter, Flizzo the undefeated local legend, Jay Donn the innovator with the talent to carry him far away from home, if he can learn to work with the outsiders who want to take him there. What unites them: a competitive dance form of dramatic contortions, simulated violence, seamlessly flowing footsteps and the occasional humorous touch. Welcome to the world of Flex.

Filmmakers Deidre Schoo and Michael Beach Nichols travel to the edge of both Brooklyn and street performance for this portrait of a rapidly growing local dance style. Their ringside view of Flex’s head-to-head battles is only the beginning. Majestic choreographed set pieces by Flex’s boldest artists are set against the evolving futures of Flizzo, Jay Donn and the form itself, showing how these artists define new identities through dance while confronting trouble at home and in their neighborhoods. Flex Is Kings is a sparkling testament to the freeing power of art and a powerful visual celebration of the beauty born when raw energy is directed toward the creative process.

—Arthur Ryel-Lindsey