Ever wondered what it’s like to see the world through someone else’s eyes? The Oscar-nominated film Nickel Boys takes that idea to a whole new level. Shot almost entirely from a first-person perspective, the movie puts viewers directly into the shoes of its characters, creating an experience that’s as immersive as it is emotional.

The film, set in a Jim Crow-era boarding school, follows Elwood (Ethan Herisse) and his friend Turner (Brandon Wilson). Every glance, every tense moment, and every emotional beat is seen through their eyes. This unique approach blurs the line between cinematography and performance, making the audience feel like they’re living the story alongside the characters.

So, how did they pull it off? The cinematographer, Jomo Fray, and camera operator, Sam Ellison, were the unsung heroes behind the camera. They literally stepped into the actors’ shoes, mimicking their movements and reactions to create a seamless first-person experience. Fray described the process as both challenging and rewarding, saying, “Those kinds of things were hard to hold.”

Director RaMell Ross, who co-wrote the screenplay, wanted the audience to feel the isolation and loneliness of the characters. In one scene, actress Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, who plays Elwood’s grandmother, had to act directly into the camera lens, simulating a hug with Turner. This unusual setup forced her to channel her character’s emotions in a way that felt raw and real.

The result? A film that’s not just visually stunning but deeply moving. Nickel Boys has already earned two Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. Whether you’re a film buff or just love a good story, this is one movie that’s worth seeing—preferably from the front row.