Review of Barbershop: The Next Cut (2016) by Brandon E — 23 Jul 2016

When the previews for this film came out, the general census was probably questioning why are they doing a third film. Barbershop was an okay film it's not memorable like other urban comedies like Friday.

Well the new film follows the same thread of the other films, Ice Cube's shop is in danger of being closed due to a deal he made. The arc of his character has something to deal with him having pride in his neighborhood and keeping the legacy of his barber shop. The Next cut takes an interesting approach due to the ongoing violence in Chicago. Calvin is planning to move his shop out of the hood to escape the violence. His son is being courted by gang members. In order to keep his shop in the hood and reduce the crime. Calvin and his crew plans to promise free haircuts if the neighborhood stays nonviolent for 48 hours. The film is setup to expose the ongoing issues of Chiraq. A lot of people praise this film for its message. To me I think this subject was executed a lot better in Spike Lee's Chiraq. Sure Barbershop shows how prominent the gangs are in the neighborhood and how innocent teens can fall victim to gang violence. However Chiraq did this subject on a far more brilliant level tapping into the approaches of politicians, churches and business during this violent time in Chicago. Chiraq was effective by looking at this issue and how it effects the nation. The message in Barbershop is good. However it's not as deep as Chiraq.

As far as performances, the cast is huge. It's funny to see Common since he had an old beef with Cube back in the 90's. Nicki Minaj can not act, her voice is annoying. I did get a laugh out of the shots the director picked to show her ass. Deon Cole is hilarious, he steals every scene he's in. The film is just chocked full with actors.

The Next Cut is a good movie and a surprise for many people who thought the series didn't need another movie. It has a good message in regards to the violence in Chicago. I just feel that Chiraq did it better.