Common Sense Media Review
By Sandie Angulo Chen
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Late great Bernie Mac's last laugh is for adults.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 17+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Soul Men
What's the Story?
In his final performance, Bernie Mac stars as Floyd, a retired businessman who was once in a famous Motown-like trio: Marcus Hooks and the Real Deal. When Marcus (a perfectly cast cameo by singer John Legend) -- the Marvin Gaye-meets-Michael Jackson singer who left the Real Deal behind for solo superstardom -- dies, Floyd convinces his ex-con former singing partner Louis (Samuel L. Jackson) to reunite for a tribute service at the Apollo Theater. On their way from L.A. to Harlem, the road-tripping duo warms up at various spots across the country.
Is It Any Good?
SOUL MEN, directed by Malcolm D. Lee, is by no means extraordinary, but it highlights Mac's comedic gifts enough to be a fitting swan song to his film career. Not only does Mac get a starring role instead of his more-frequent supporting gigs, but he's the humor to Jackson's righteousness (as in all of Jackson's films, he spouts some memorable monologues). Mac and Jackson's odd-couple chemistry propels this otherwise forgettable comedy forward, and Mac's improvisational delivery is a reminder of why he'll be sorely missed.
Mac fans should watch through the credits, which are entirely devoted to Mac's outtakes and off-camera interviews. Lee dedicated the comedy to Mac and Isaac Hayes -- "two real soul men" who died a day apart in August 2008. The latter appears as himself, the Black Moses of soul, in a small role. If for no other reason, this comedy is memorable for being their shared encore.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the movie's themes regarding second chances. How do Floyd and Louis help each other? What do they learn on their cross-country adventure? Families can also discuss how the movie handles stereotypes. Are some of the jokes exploitative? If so, why? Is this a fitting end to Mac's comedic legacy?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 7, 2008
- On DVD or streaming : February 10, 2009
- Cast : Bernie Mac , Jennifer Coolidge , Samuel L. Jackson
- Director : Malcolm D. Lee
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Director(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Dimension
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 111 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : pervasive language, and sexual content including nudity
- Last updated : September 21, 2019
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