A young Haitian-American man grapples with his cultural identity and the consequences of systemic racism; after a tragic encounter with law enforcement, his Vodou are summoned for retribution.

SYNOPSIS:

In the vibrant neighborhood of East Flatbush, Brooklyn, a young Haitian-American man named Max Valcourt grapples with his identity and the weight of his cultural heritage. The story opens with a narration that sets the stage for the coexistence of the living and the spirits in the Vodou tradition, hinting at the unseen forces that shape our lives. Max, raised in a family deeply rooted in Vodou practices, is caught between the expectations of his parents and his desire to forge his own path in America. His father, Raymond, and his mother, Odette, embody the traditional values of their Haitian roots, while Max yearns for a life that embraces both his heritage and the modern world.

The narrative takes a poignant turn when Max's life is forever altered by a tragic event. After a heartfelt flashback to his college days with his girlfriend, Ana St. Hilaire, where they discuss their dreams and aspirations, the story shifts to the present. Max is now a successful lawyer, but his life is marred by the haunting memories of 9/11, where he lost Ana in the chaos. As he navigates his grief, he finds solace in his Vodou rituals, which connect him to his ancestors and the spirits that guide him.

Max's life spirals further when he witnesses the police shooting of a young Black man, which reignites his trauma and forces him to confront the systemic racism that plagues his community. This incident leads to a series of events that culminate in Max's own death at the hands of a state trooper, John McKenna, during a routine traffic stop. The narrative explores the aftermath of this tragedy, as Max's spirit lingers in the world, seeking closure and understanding.

In the spirit realm, Max encounters Ana, who reveals that she has been watching over him since her death. Their reunion is bittersweet, as Max grapples with the reality of his situation and the unfinished business he has left behind. Meanwhile, Stasia Dreyfus, the daughter of Max's mentor, becomes embroiled in the investigation surrounding his death, determined to seek justice for him. As she delves deeper into the circumstances of the shooting, she uncovers the dark truths about the police force and the systemic issues that led to Max's demise.

The story weaves between the living and the dead, exploring themes of love, loss, and the struggle for identity. Max's journey through the afterlife serves as a powerful metaphor for the struggles faced by marginalized communities, as he learns to embrace his heritage and the power of his ancestors. The climax of the film occurs during a Vodou ceremony, where Uncle Joe, a priest in the community, performs a ritual to bring Max back to life, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and the connection to one's roots.

Ultimately, 'Ten Beads' is a poignant exploration of the intersection of life and death, love and loss, and the enduring power of cultural heritage. It challenges viewers to confront the realities of systemic racism and the importance of understanding one's identity in a world that often seeks to erase it. The film concludes with Max's resurrection, symbolizing hope and the possibility of redemption, as he returns to the living world with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to honor his heritage.