Review of Phat Girlz (2006) by Jeremy C — 04 Sep 2009

I hate skinny bitches.

Jazmin Biltmore works in retail sales and dreams of being skinny and owning her own clothing line. Jazmin is hard on herself and her insecurities often lead to her failures. One day, she wins a trip to Palm Springs where she meets the man of her dreams. Surprising to Jazmine, the guy finds her attractive and pursues a relationship with her. Will Jazmine?s self destructive nature ruin what looks to be the beginning of turning her life around?

?I didn?t get respect because I was a stick; I got respect because I was a stone.?

Nnegest Likke delivers Phat Girlz in her directorial debut. The storyline for this picture has a good premise and a positive message. The ultimate resolve was touching and the path to get there was well delivered; however, some of the scenes were awkward, over acted, and occasionally scenes were recorded on grainy film for an inconsistent feel. The acting was slightly better than average and the cast includes Mo?Nique, Joyful Drake (wow), Jimmy Jean-Louis, Kendra Johnson, and Eric Roberts.

?You?re so ugly, when you were born your mother named you Shit Happens.?

Phat Girlz is a picture my second cousin wanted to watch yesterday. This film has a lot going for it. The message around overcoming your self conscious is clear and well delivered. Mo?Nique delivered a powerful performance; although, some scenes seemed forced and the made-for-television feel of some scenes were frustrating. Overall, this is worth seeing but does not belong in your DVD collection.

?A pearl is not a pearl until it is out of its shell.?

Grade: C+.