SOUTHSIDE WITH YOU (2016)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Written & Directed By: Richard Tanne 
Cinematography By: Pat Scola 
Editor: Evan Schiff  
Cast: Tika Sumpter, Parker Sawyers, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Taylar Fondren 

The film chronicles the summer 1989 afternoon when the future President of the United States, Barack Obama, wooed his future First Lady, Michelle Obama, on a first date across Chicago’s South Side.

The focus on what it’s not for once as it is a black romance that is not totally comedy.

It’s a very ambitious film a film that mixes fact and fiction, but tries to keep the subject matter simple and charming while sticking to most of the facts. Trying to keep the material fresh even though we know how it will end.

Nor is there an emphasis on sex at hooking up as a major part of the romance. We See the characters as smart and well respected. Even if at times the film falls into cliche perils as part of it’s story line and charm though at least the film tries to give it more of a mature aspect to them.

It’s something that is different a mature and more adult look at romance that is simple and complex. That deals with the future and more about making their way in the world. Through lifestyles and career ambitions.

Doesn’t suffer the same fate as many it seems cliche romantic movies which have already been in the decline over the years. We are more served with romantic comedies which already usually weaken some movies by putting more emphasis on the comedy and then having a romantic scene here or there when we already have plenty comedies that have romantic scenes as side, LOVE story. I guess when it comes to romantic comedies at least half of the film will revolve around dating and romance or the love interest will be more than one dimensional and have character

Though unfortunately it seems in African American based ones it seems the focus is on the couple arguing most of the film which is meant to be seen as funny then finally get romantic towards the end or one or both characters being sex crazed. Which automatically feels more like something out of a sitcom rather than needed for a feature.

Which is why when a film like this feels like a rarity and it shouldn’t it is so noted. When there are and should be plenty of films and stories like this out there. Like the individuals it portrays. As there are plenty of people out there like this but unfortunately only a few get the spotlight or more people get to know

Which might be why the Tyler Perry movies are so successful as they serve an audience that feels disenfranchised and that no one makes films for that audience as his are films that they see themselves not only represented in, but also speak more directly to them and their community. As his films at least seem tailor made or meant to be representative of his audience.

An imagined history based on The few facts we know about the Obamas first dates. That gives this film more of a pop culture glow but also a hook as to why audience might want to see it and is a little different than some others.

According to director Richard Tanne, all of the main events of the film did actually occur on the Obama’s first date with the exception of the community meeting which happened at a later date. Obviously another BEFORE SUNRISE influenced film. as it is more about conversation, character and emotion. Though generalizing it that way would easily be a cop out as the film also adds it own touches to the romance as their day is more adventure filled.

As some romantic films have to be shown and filmed that way to showcase that initial spark and see the chemistry while the chemicals mix and start to bond. We understand why in the future even as challenged and frustrated they might be with one another. Why they stay together. So that there are plenty of situations to observe there differing opinions and points of view

While also showcasing it’s own version of romance that is traditional and not necessarily

The same old. As every person’ love story is similar but different and special to the couple or individual and this films honors that We get glimpses of their future greatness. For her we see the roots of it. How she wants to have her own career and be great. How he hasn’t exactly decided what he wants to do but his belief in people, communities and America and how people naturally gravitate towards him. Both actors are believable as the Obama’s

Michelle comes off as someone trying to carve her own niche and life. Be independent and make her way in the world. Not looking to be defined by someone else. Not have anyone but herself take charge of their life

Barack as a confident young man who has taken the for rallying people and charismatic. It still not exactly sure about his future and defining himself

Grade: B

JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH (2021)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Directed By: Shaka King
Written By: Shaka King & Will Berson
Story By: Shaka King, Will Berson, Kenneth Lucas & Keith Lucas
Cinematography: Sean Bobbitt
Editor: Kristin Sprague

Cast: LaKeith Stanfield, Daniel Kaluuya, Jesse Plemons, Dominique Fishback, Ashton Sanders, Algee Smith, Lil Rel Howery, Martin Sheen, Darrell Britt-Gibson, Dominique Thorne, Robert Longstreet, Jermaine Fowler 

Fred Hampton, a young, charismatic activist, becomes Chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party – putting him directly in the crosshairs of the government, the FBI, and the Chicago Police. But to destroy the revolution, the authorities are going to need a man on the inside.

This movie is so much more than one might think. It is a historical account of the cos piracy behind the assassination of Fred Hampton who was 21 at the time, but instead of just recreating and renacting moments that lead to his downfall.

The film offers a character piece of sorts not only of Fred Hampton but also of the man who worked as a confidential informant to get intel about him and the black panthers.

The film shows Hampton to be a hero and revolutionary but also a human being. Trying to fight for his people and civil rights. While it seemed at every turn the government was eagerly planning and arranging his downfall. Where it seems that after he is released from jail the weight of everything really starts to hit him and he seems to know that his time might be coming to an end, but still so more concerned for Those around him and the people he is trying to save. All do this and he was only 21 years old. If he achieved all of this at such a young age imagine what he could have accomplished had he lived. 

That is sort of the tragedy imagine what could have been accomplished if there wasn’t a conspiracy against minorities whenever they try to stand up for themselves.

The film doesn’t shy away, As it never does with showing how demeaning black people were treated and unjust and antagonized that they are. It shows that he even inspired street gangs to come together to form a community to help their own communities.

The film does show some of the behind-the-scenes of the F.B.I and their tactics to take him down. It even Shows the point of view of an idealistic agent who actually believes that the black Panther party is more of a terrorist group and he believes in civil rights for all and becomes dismayed by what he see’s continuously as unjust but keeps following orders with no kind of resistance until he has an awakening that jailing Hampton is not enough and what his superiors want. As jail just empowers freedom fighters. The end goal is death and while he likes to think he and the agency are better than that. He is questioned how would he feel if his daughter brought a black man home and he then comes face to face with his own prejudice and realizes he is just as bad and will tow the company line.

The difference between this movie and some others is that in other films he would gain his soul back and ask us to be sympathetic towards him. This film doesn’t do that it allows to show that he has a choice between right and wrong which he knows and he chooses the wrong knowing it is bad and against what he supposedly stands for. Making him worse than those he and his co-workers choose to take down. 

This film is beautifully and masterfully directed and you feel every moment and every scene. Every performance even smaller ones make you take notice and care.

Daniel Kaliuya is mesmerizing in the role of Fred Hampton which he inhabits with strength and swagger commanding your attention in every scene he is in and making you feel sympathy when he is faced with challenges beyond his control. 

He has played leads before and is usually memorable in films, but this is the first time it feels like has gone above and beyond.

Lakeith Stansfeld continues to impress he is more the lead here as William O’Neil who is a hustler and minor criminal who gets roped into this to avoid jail time at first and then realizes he can’t walk away. Especially as his loyalties get stronger more towards Hampton and the cause. A kind of Donnie Brasco situation only here the panthers aren’t the criminals and are trying to better things. We can see the despair it places on him and in the end the pittance he is given for sacrificing someone who actually became a friend 

Stansfeld shows all the emotions and complexities of his character and the inner destruction his actions cause. He shows off his cunningness and skills of thinking on his feet and ultimately the defeat of his soul. Even in the alter scenes his paranoia.

This is refreshing as get to see him play a solid character and not the quirky roles that he has gotten pigeonholed with in the past. Showing he has leading man chops and quite a wide range.

Though these two are at the center of the story and film. The film does allow for side stories and characters. Like two best friends who join and meet unfortunate violent ends away from one another. One is purposely assassinated the other goes full-on vigilante after his death.

This is a film that is powerful and humanizes names and people you might have heard about in history books and while they are legends abd martyrs this film allows them to be recognized and humanized. 

Ultimately this film is a tragedy. It hits all the more as it is based on truth. So that by the end you are devastated, but you marvel at what you have just watched and sat through

Grade: A

MA’ RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM (2020)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Directed by: George C. Wolfe
Written By: Rueben Santiago-Hudson
Based On the play Written By: August Wilson
Cinematography: Tobias A. Schliessler
Editor: Andrew Mondahein

Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Viola Davis, Colman Domingo, Glynn Turman, Michael Potts, Jonny Clyde, Jeremy Shamos, Taylour Paige, Dusan Brown

During a recording session, tensions rise between Ma Rainey, her ambitious horn player, and the white management determined to control the uncontrollable “Mother of the Blues”.

This film contains a smaller story than expected. One was aware it was a play before but wasn’t expecting it to still feel as stage bound.

As the film tries to open up the story and show more locations but there are very few attempts to leave more it error locations. Which consist of two locations. The liner room where they practice and the recording g studio. So that the film keeps reminding you of its theatrical origins 

Chadwick Boseman steals all of his scenes and is more at the forefront of the movie. Though at first, it seems like he will be more of a high-energy supporting player. 

Though Viola Davis is the title character. Where she makes a powerful entrance and a strong exit. She also feels liek a supporting player. Even though the film revolves around her character. As after all, it’s her recording session and the others are her band. Who she feels are more the hired help. Who should be happy to be working for her.

Through her character though high strung. We find out why she is that way. As it is all about respect and wanting to be treated with it most overall. She has a short temper when what she says isn’t followed and forces a hard situation and a flirtatious girlfriend.

One has to give extra credit to Viola Davis for gaining most of the appropriate weight to play the character and give her the exact look which is unflattering g with gold teeth and heavy running make-up, she might not be the actual star of the movie but she gives off star presence and in believability.

Though by the end she is just a supporting character and her presence really has little effect on the actual story or drama that ends up happening In the film. By the end, she hasn’t changed. Only the situation has changed and in a more tragic way that really has nothing to do with her. Not much changes for her, but more for the secondary characters

The film ends up becoming a tragedy in a way you can see coming hit not necessarily the circumstance or the collateral damage. 

Though shocking in the end. Still wish it had been longer and a little bit stronger. It’s a tragedy you thought was going to be one kid. If one and is read ends up somewhere totally different. 

As the film had Great cinematography and details as far as art direction.

It really makes you feel like you are In The period and of course, immediately makes you aware of the limitations for its African American characters and the rampant racism.

Grade: B

SMALL AXE: ALEX WHEATLE (2020)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Directed By: Steve McQueen 
Written By: Steve McQueen & Alastair Siddons 
Cinematography: Shabier Kirchner 
Editor: Chris Dickens & Steve McQueen

Cast: Sheyi Cole, Khali Best, Fumilayo Brown-Olatej, Riley Burgin, Ross Cahill, Zakiyyah Deen, Robbie Gee, Jonathan Jules, Ashley McGuire 

Alex Wheatle follows the true story of award-winning writer, Alex Wheatle, from a young boy through his early adult years. Having spent his childhood in a mostly white institutional care home with no love or family, he finally finds not only a sense of community for the first time in Brixton, but his identity and ability to grow his passion for music and DJing. When he is thrown in prison during the Brixton Uprising of 1981, he confronts his past and sees a path to healing

Though short on running time at barely over an hour. As this is part of a television series, but feel more like films. Each film is part of an anthology. The film makes its point about identity. How you fail to grow without one because you have no idea who you are or where you come from. You have no ground to stand on to grow from really.

As the main character we are introduced to as a child in the ul foster care system constantly abused and neglected by Caucasian’s who are supposed to be looking out for him but seem to resent him. He doesn’t know his past or even too much culture as he is alienated and then eventually dumped into an apartment in a low-income neighborhood

Though at least mroe amongst people like him. West Indian and African immigrants who take him in and he learns culture, survival and the streets form them. As they help to also nurture his love of music. 

We see as he matures in the streets a sort of coming of age story of himself and we see how he strives especially not knowing his past. He finds it hard to carve out a future and even figure himself out. As he is usually made fun of and talked down to by those around him because he isn’t quite as grounded as they are.

He tells his story in jail to his cellmate after being arrested for his participation in the Braxton rots and strangely enough, his cellmate is the one who sets him straight. Explain g to him to learn his own history and unlearn the bad thing she has been taught.

He also gives him some life lessons to learn on his own. As this story is based o a true story and person. You can easily figure out the ending.

While this isn’t as electrifying as the other films in The small axe series of films and quite shorter it is easy to see why it was made and this story told it not only helps lead into the final film of the set. It also tells a tale of rehabilitation, self-rehabilitation. 

It also feels like the first act of a much bigger story. Where you wish the film expanded into mroe of a life story. As it is fine the way it is but it also feels like a chapter or chapters of a life that we know by the end will be much more fulfilling and deserves mroe then just an update and pre-credits scene explaining. What Happened to the character 

Grade: B-

DANCE FLICK (2009)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Directed By: Damien Dante Wayans
Written By: Damien Dante Wayans, Craig Wayans, Kennan Ivory Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans
Cinematography By: Mark Irwin
Editor: Scott Hill

Cast: Damon Wayans Jr. Shoshana Bush, Amy Sedaris, Lochlyn Munro, Essence Atkins, Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Chris Elliott, Keenan Ivory Wayans, David Alan Grier, Kim Wayans, Tichina Arnold, George Gore II, Craig Wayans

Street dancer Thomas Uncles is from the wrong side of the tracks, but his bond with the beautiful Megan White might help the duo realize their dreams as they enter in the mother of all dance battles.

While rarely funny at sending up its targets the film is not witty the jokes are lazy and not very well thought out with its low budget the film just looks cheap Even though it’s not directed by Keenan Ivory Wayans. It is written and directed by the next generation of the Wayans family and while the previous generation had at least some success with a few good and hilarious films. The next generation is not starting off well. Half of the jokes are stand-alone and seems to be more about spoofing pop culture than staying on course and spoofing all of these teenage dance movies like, SAVE THE LAST DANCE which it seems to be mostly inspired by. And films like STOMP THE YARD, STEP UP, HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL and HAIRSPRAY.


The film really never stays on the theme which makes the movie seem like a wide collection of skits rather than having a natural plot. This seems to be a common problem in a lot of the modern-day spoof films which seem to only be made to be year-end revues of all things pop culture instead of the subject or film(s) they are supposed to be spoofing.


Which I guess is because these films strive not to be one joke films so they need to pad the films with unnecessary jokes that have nothing to do with anything else in the film. I realize these films are not made to be cinematic classics but at the least, it should be memorable for being entertaining and good. The film just feels lazy.

The main story is the two leads falling in love and him not only teaching her how to dance but find her passion for it again and gain her self confidence. One of the problems is that the leads look too old to play believable teenagers. Yet none of the performers seem engaging enough to really pay attention to nor do they create characters who are the least bit interesting nor do they have any charisma or personality to engage you to watch them.


Since is not rated R The material feels watered down ad keeps the jokes from going profane and over the top. This is where the Wayans usually excel but here trying to market to a teen audience. So it leaves them kind of shackle.
The film involves separate characters who have nothing to do with each other until near the end when they come together to be a dance crew though they don’t actually do any dancing, they are just there no scenes of them bonding to come together as a team, it just happens.


In fact, one character is introduced and is never used later so there is no reason for the film to spend any real time developing the character who is not even used in running gags he is only around for two scenes. He is not needed at all.

Skip It

GRADE: F

CB4 (1993)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Directed By: Tamra Davis 
Written By: Chris Rock, Nelson George & Robert LoCash 
Story By: Chris Rock & Nelson George 
Cinematography By: Karl Walter Lindenlaub 
Editor: Earl Watson 

Cast: Chris Rock, Deezer D, Khandi Alexander, Allen Payne, Rachel True, Phil Hartman, Charlie Murphy, Stoney Jackson, Richard Gant, Art Evans, Lawanda Page, Theresa Randle, Willard E. Pugh, Chris Elliot, J.D. Daniels, Shar Jackson, Vanessa Lee Chester, Shirley Hemphill, Lance Crouther 

A “rapumentary”, covering the rise to fame of MC Gusto, Stab Master Arson, and Dead Mike: members of the rap group “CB4”. We soon learn that these three are not what they seem and don’t apear to know as much about rap music as they claim… but a lack of musical ability in an artist never hurts sales, does it? You’ve just got to play the part of a rap star

The film is Rough around the edges, dated by now but still manages to be funny.

The movie is inspired and funny. The film is especially good at making fun of it’s main target the Gangsta rap scene and it’s excess. while it was still going strong. This is more a mainstream and Low budget studio film but not a self aware mockumentary that lends itself to spoof like the movie FEAR OF A BLACK HAT. The funnier and better made of the two films. Though then again I was older by the time I saw the later film and more into hip hop and rap, knowing it’s history by that time.

This is where my love of Chris Rock and his comedy began. I had seen him in SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. And remembered him in small roles in movies like BOOMERANG, BEVERLY HILLS COP 2 and NEW JACK CITY. But this film felt like it spoke to my generation. Even as I was too young to Watch it. I still saw it in the theater twice and it’s a movie I still watch and return to many times over the years. While not the best made, it still feels fun.

Though there were movies more aimed at me and my age group at the time in particular for urban audiences were the KID n’ Play series of movies like CLASS ACT and the HOUSE PARTY movies which were also rated R and while racy. These films also felt inclusive and rebellious. This is also a film that feels compromised to a degree. As it has a coherent storyline, but gets distracted many times and leaves a lot of plot threads dangling. Which it seems like the credits hint at with cut scenes playing during.

Over the years Chris Rock had been a comedian that I can constantly respond to and identify with. He has the subject of a character who has The whole more suburban upbringing but wanting to feel more down and street as that is what sells and selling yourself out as well as your culture. Just as the contrast between his long term girlfriend versus the groupie who is always around Teaching the characters to be themselves over all the gimmicks get have tried over the years to be popular or get noticed.

The film also gives the late Charlie Murphy an iconic role as the villain Gusto. He is menacing and also hilarious and one of the first performances I truly remember him in. The film even has Chris Rock’s his old SNL co-star The late Phil Hartman in a supporting role. Even though race is involved the movie keeps it’s focus on African-American characters and culture.

While never the best skit writer this is the beginning of Chris rock’s comedic voice more on issues and subjects. It’s still not as sharp as it is now. As at times scenes seem to be more parody or episodic skit like ideas interwoven into the story. It allows the cast to be funny and do some of the lifting.

Behind the scenes Nelson George a writer who I am a big fan of who I had not discovered yet. Whose writing is more about being a music and culture critic. As well as now being an accomplished writer and screenwriter these days. He is one of the producers and Co-writer of the screenplay.

The film aspires to be a little more than it is. It starts off by being a comedy though that takes us to the middle of the film. After that the movie loses it’s focus until the third act where it figures it needs to ends soon and forces more plot elements introduced earlier into the main fold.

As the film does show the motivation for the characters but then as they are achieving their dream they are pulled into controversy by a politician looking for publicity. While also being on the run from the actual Gangster they are emulating. The problem is that the film leaves many loose ends and only seems to solve a few of the problems.

Most will come to the film for comedy and maybe even a nostalgic look back. I will admit that I am an unbiased fan of this and most Chris Rock movies. I support them eve. As some have been disappointing and more focused on remaking stuff and riffing off of it instead of being original. Here at least he seems off to a good start. This was before he made a comeback with his stand-up special BRING THE PAIN. Though this was after he had left SNL. This seemed like a culmination of his stand-up and comedic voice. That showed thematic ideas behind his comedy then.

The film feels too short but that might be due to cuts and. It too much else to add on as that might have introduced other things that would need to be spread around throughout the film. I wish the movie was longer more of an epic. So that it had time to tie up a bunch of loose threads that are left dangling and tackle some other subjects. 

Rachel True cast in another girlfriend role in a budding comedians first lead role in a film they co-wrote (HALF BAKED) and here and even now still looks the same age.

This film lead to a crush and being a fan of actress Khandi Alexander as she looks so drool worthyingly hot in the film. As the ultimate groupie and early model for the mm and finding financial gain from it.

If you remember these days and drone this movie is a test and a great way to look back. If not this movie might not be as strong for you. I can admit I owned the soundtrack to this movie though some parody and at the end a throwback classic to hip hop. There are some songs that are remakes of classic hip hop songs throughout, but most of the music is original. Like the music the movie is very misogynistic. No real strong female voice and when there is quickly becomes more humor and a thorn in the side would expect a little better treatment considering the director is female Tamra Davis.

One of the reasons the film still resonates for me is that I was growing up during that time so it was part of my generations pop culture and at the heart of it. It was one of the first films that felt like it was directed towards me and my generation other the. Being able to identify with it and the lead character.

Learning to be yourself and find your own voice even after being a personality or copying someone else brought you fame. Which is strange because then at the end we find the characters supposedly really rapping but obviously not the actors and they are rapping a classic hip hop song that isn’t theirs. This is also implicated early In the film where they lip synch to rap. Think WAYNE’S WORLD with bohemian rhapsody only here the tape deck is messed up in his car so it goes fast one second and slow the next even as they all dress up in the car like RUN DMC, as that is who the tape they are listening to is by, but also when we see their many attempts to rap and get discovered they usually fail because they are trying gimmicks and not really being themselves or truthful at all. It doesn’t help that we never really see them write or focus on the writing and rapping part ever. The only time it seems like they actually might have talent individually is in the montage of scenes when they break up and the individual singles released.

I realize this is more a silly comedy, but the message is presented. So that it is more in the background. It is just not really focused upon The film is a movie of it’s time. As it came out and partially satirized gangsta rap while it was still around and starting to come upon the end or a new generation of it. While it was dwindling. That was hip but bold and not too late where it would have been more obvious.

This is a kind of classic. One of those films most of my generation remember for better and worse and probably pass it on to another generation. If only as some kind of time capsule.

Grade: B-

THE PHOTOGRAPH (2020)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Written & Directed By: Stella Meghie 
Cinematography: Mark Schwartzbard 
Editor: Shannon Baker Davis 

Cast: Issa Rae, LaKeith Stanfield, Chante Adams, Y’Lan Noel, Kelvin Harrison jr., Lil Rel Howery, Teyonah Parris, Jasmine Cephas Jones, Rob Morgan, Courtney B. Vance, Chelsea Peretti 

A series of intertwining love stories set in the past and in the present.

The reason I really wanted this film to work. Is that it is rare that you see black romance onscreen. There are films that have it but they only Come around once a decade. As usually on film they just fall in love and get married as part of a bigger story or they are already married and friends to other people in the movie. A supporting character usually having a wife or girlfriend. Or they are the arguing couple or their relationship is more comedic throughout. Never quite deep and never truly showing love and definitely not romance.

 As it makes or seem like the characters are more materialistic, a sexual, sexual only or shallow. It rarely celebrates the beauty of black characters making it seem like they are only as worthy as their looks or body parts.

This leads to a lack of representation again and leaves black people with very few examples of on-screen love. Which might be why at times and at large it seems to be a rarity onscreen and off at times also.

This film at least tries to work against the negative stereotypes and represent and present a love story that doesn’t rely on race heavily but is a black film Romance. With beautiful artistic characters.

So while this film is a romantic drama. what doesn’t precisely work is that it has two love stories that parallel one another and are supposed to complement each other as well as tell their own and nurture one another. The problem is that the one from the past is so much deeper and more felt throughout. 

While the modern romance is similar it doesn’t feel as deep. As it happens faster and doesn’t have any challenges until towards  the end. Leaving it more bland and quite frankly a bit dull. 

There are no hardships for the romance really because as soon as they see one another we know this is meant to be. While the flashbacks to older characters which is the reason they met and came together in the first place. Has so much drama and meaning. It makes the modern one feel a bit empty.

Though at least we get to see the thrill of the chase at the beginning of their courtship. Trying to impress or. Another and be witty. It also lets us see their passion for one another and the reasons they and their romance grows 

The film might have been stronger if rather than treating it as a puzzle and parallel if the older story was told first and then see how it affects the modern in bits. Though it seems it is there to show parallels as well as keep the story motivated as a kind of mystery.

Either way the film definitely has a cultured vibe and mood throughout with a great jazz soundtrack. It’s nice to see a film of black professionals who are upwardly mobile and successful more upper-middle class. 

One only wishes the modern-day Romance was stronger.

If i had to describe this movie with one word soulful.

Grade: C+

THE LOVEBIRDS (2020)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Directed By: Michael Showalter 
Written by: Brendan Gall & Aaron Abrams
Story By:  Brendan Gall, Aaron Abrams & Martin Geri
Cinematography: Brian Burgoyne 
Editor: Vince Filippone & Robert Nassau

Cast: Issa Rae, Kumail Nanjiani, Paul Sparks, Anna Camp, Kyle Bornheimer, Catherine Cohen, Andrene Ward-Hammond, Barry Rothbart

A couple experiences a defining moment in their relationship when they are unintentionally embroiled in a murder mystery. As their journey to clear their names takes them from one extreme – and hilarious – circumstance to the next, they must figure out how they, and their relationship, can survive the night.

This movie works as a screwball romantic comedy. Where we see the couple get together in the beginning. Then even though still together recognize they are having problems and slowly throughout the film fall in love again.

As they realize how much they care for one another and not judge their relationship by other’s standards or against others.

Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani make a good on-screen pair. They have chemistry even if not romantic chemistry.

It’s fun and funny watching them Go through more and more challenges while on the run to figure out a mystery and clear their names. As they both have manic energy and the film gets more ridiculous as it goes along. Not to mention predictable.

As with everything and issue they talk about in the beginning they end up having to face or deal With, Including how much of this is like the amazing race.

By the end the story is silly but works as a movie. As this is the first film star kumail Nanjiani and director Michael showalter have worked on together since their previous film THE BIG SICK which was oscar nominated. Maybe it was thought they would work on something stronger besides a more out and out mainstream comedy. That more compliments them As they both come from more Comedic backgrounds. Plus neither one wrote this script.

So this comes across as a nice quaint comedy. That reminds one of the old classics where Two comedy stars as a couple must face a madcap humorous adventure together. With each other as the only people they can trust.

It’s also nice to see an interracial romance where race isn’t brought up and still having two minorities in a starring role. Which gives the film certain freedom but also hinders it by not allowing race to come. Into the picture kind of turns a blind eye and makes the characters bland and doesn’t seem to acknowledge them fully.

Though you never take anything in the film seriously. Their chemistry is strong and you believe them as a couple.

The film never gets too complicated.  it just stays simple throughout. 

Grade: C+

THE WEEKEND (2018)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Written & Directed By: Stella Meghie
Cinematography: Kris Belchevski
Editor: Shannon Baker Davis

Cast: Sasheer Zamata, Tone Bell, Dewanda Wise, Kym Whitley, Y’Lan Noel, Josefina Landeros 

A comedian goes away for the weekend with an ex-boyfriend and his new girlfriend.

It’s nice to see an all-black romantic comedy once in a while. That offers representation and no stereotypes. It also offers a strong independent female lead who is smart, funny, and not desperate.

It’s easy to fall for lead Sasher Zamata and her character. She is charming even if deeply sarcastic and at times rude. Though usually Go for the Dewanda Wise type character, her rival of sorts in the film. As she seems to be given short change. We barely get to know her and she is treated almost like a villain. When she is actually Put in an awkward situation and treated kind of badly by most involved over the weekend. 

So that whIle Sasher Zamata’s Character is the protagonist and whom we are supposed to root for. She is kind of mean and is written off as being sarcastic to be defensive because she is afraid of getting hurt and being vulnerable. Yet she seems to mostly get her way most of the time. So that rationalization doesn’t always work, but then again is she really that different than guys in these types of romantic comedies? who are ass holes for the most part throughout and unmotivated except when they finally find the one and then no matter how underhanded they might be to be with that person we are meant to root for them be axis they are presented as the underdog?

The film Feels awkward and at times airless due to lack of a score partially. Though like the film and the performances, script, and direction. Just feels like something is missing. Yet it wins you over and stays entertaining. 

Though clear from The beginning where it is going. We Want her to end up with the other guy. The one she has no history with, Who seems more deeper and fun. 

As she has chemistry with both her ex and the next guy. She is a little obvious in her attraction for her ex and her ex makes it obvious he wants her still too but can’t Make up his mind. Which is not only frustrating for her but also for us. 

Though happy the way it ended not storybook and a little Unexpected.

In the end, the film that Is a nice little romantic comedy that is more about bonds and relationships rather than romance and fantasy fulfillment. 

Grade: C+

THE PAPERBOY (2012)

~ jbg ~ Leave a comment

Directed By: Lee Daniels 
Written By: Lee Daniels & Pete Dexter 
Based On The Book By: Pete Dexter 
Cinematography By: Roberto Schaefer 
 Editor: Joe Klotz 


 Cast: Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, Matthew McConaughey, David Oyelowo, Macy Gray, John Cusack, Scott Glenn, Ned Bellamy

Eldest son Ward Jansen is a star reporter for a Miami newspaper and has returned home with close friend Yardley to investigate a racial murder case. Younger brother Jack Jansen has returned home after a failed stint at university as a star swimmer. To help give his life some direction, Ward gives Jack a job on their investigation as their driver. But into the mix comes the fiancée of the imprisoned convict who stirs up confusing feelings of love and lust for the young Jack. Meanwhile, Ward and Yardley’s investigation stirs up
deep-rooted issues of race and acceptance which could cause serious consequences for everyone involved.

This film that deemed to start out as a thriller, Quickly seems to spiral into a no man’s land that resembles more of a misguided Grind-house film more than anything else. The sad part is what seems at first to become earnest filmmaking quickly delves into some kind of camp classic

As the film continues the outline is about proving a man might be innocent. It mostly focuses not only on the politics, but the coming of age tale of Zac Efron’s character. It also concerns itself with building and defining the characters.

Now I am not the biggest fan of Lee Daniels as a Director yet, but watching this film. Just like in PRECIOUS. It feels like he puts in too many surrealistic seeming camera tricks and angles that become distracting and unneeded when the film could have just told the story.

It feels like a person just out of film school. Who feels the need to how off or insert things that aren’t really needed in a way to impress. Like a college student writing a paper with too many big words misused trying to impress. I see it as him trying and learning new things behind the camera thinking the audience will be amazed as much as he is using them. The other problem is it plays like a drama then wants to be a thriller, but only at certain times and wanting to represent race relations of that period.

In fact the film begins with Macy Gray playing a maid who is being questioned about a book dedicated to her. now it feels like an interrogation that is really used to give her character a reason to voice over the film. Other then that the opening scene amounts to nothing later in the film. No real reason to be there. There are a bunch of scenes like that throughout the film. Some are what help to bring out the ridiculousness of the film. This film could have been a sort of hard-boiled thriller and mystery if it didn’t seem to get distracted by becoming a Coming of Age film that has the look of a WONDER YEARS episode while parading Zac Efron around in his underwear. I am sure what might have worked on the page here comes off more silly and misguided. The film often times seems confusing or confused itself.

Pedro Almodóvar was several times approached to helm this project and seriously considered to make it his first English-speaking feature. He finally declined but, allegedly, he participated in early versions of the script. He might have been the one to balabce the camp with the drama and thriller elements without making it laughable.

Just as it could have been more believable if John Cusack’s character wasn’t as physically repulsive as he morally.

Alex Pettyfer was first choice for the role of Jack.

Tobey Maguire was cast as Ward but dropped out because of scheduling conflicts. Luckily for him.

Nicole Kidman replaced Sofía Vergara. Which might have pushed it into a more straight to DVD title though the lust factor would have been more understandable. Though explaining her characters origin and why a so called racist would correspond with her would take more then a bit of explaining.

It plays like camp, but tries to be taken seriously which makes it even worse. Though Nicole Kidman seems to be the only one who realizes or is comfortable with having fun and sending it all up, While trying to create a realistic character.

scenes like

Nicole Kidman peeing on Zac Efron to combat his jellyfish stings.

Nicole Kidman masturbating in a jailhouse visit to John Cusack who also masturbates and we see the aftermath of

The film just feels dirty and unnecessary as it’s based on a hard-boiled mystery novel that seems to forget it’s premise. The film feels all over the place, for all of this ridiculousness and shocking scenes that come once on awhile between it is really dull, though gives Zac Efron no real reason to run around constantly only in underwear.

The film gives John Cusack a chance to embarass himself by looking really bad and dirty. Inhabiting a bad caricature of a character.

Matthew McConaughey’s character has an interesting arc that is shockingly Introduced then slightly dropped or pushed out of favor.

The key defining point of this tawdry tale is Nicole Kidman and her character. She gives the role her all and is impressive as a trashy femme-fatale. Overly made up with make up that looks like it was applied by herself an it is messy. She is a scary, but also a scene stealer. She deserves a oscar nomination for her determination and grounding as she stays true to the character throughout and somehow finds a way to fit in.While actually creating a character to care about

The film you think would be ripe for camp, bit it is so underplayed and then serious there isn’t room to enjoy it on a camp level.

In the third act the film revs up to be a thinker then just runs out of steam and ends with no great drama. Leaving us with a whimper.

While I can’t really recommend the film. I will say it is a film to see. To see something hopefully one of a kind. Some might find entertainment from it. Which is why I can’t completely fail it. I believe it shows lee Daniels a former film producer is still leading as a director At least he is trying unlike some directors

 Grade: D