“Not a Love Story” follows Alec and Chenoa, childhood sweethearts torn apart when Alec’s uncle abducts her, igniting a decade-long family feud. Reunited years later—Chenoa now a single mother and Alec seeking atonement—they must face old traumas and a violent rival who kidnaps Chenoa’s child. Mixing drama, romance and thriller, the film tackles racism, misogyny and grief with rich period detail and strong performances, delivering an intense, thought-provoking ride.