Review of Soul Men (2008) by Jason D — 22 Feb 2009

Soul Men is the story of two former famous singers, the late Bernie Mac and Samuel L. Jackon, who have long since faded away from the spotlight after the star of their group (singer John Legend in brief appearances) broke away from the group and became an international star.

After the death of Legend's character, a funeral/concert extravaganza is put together and the two Soul Men are convinced to get together for the show. Both of the men hate each other, which (given the comedy backgrounds of both Jackson and Mac) provides some AMAZINGLY hilarious moments throughout the film which is all parts black comedy/road trip/musical film.

Seriously though, Jackson treads lightly around comedy, but when he does, it can be a wonderful thing and he is truly hilarious in this film. After watching this, I'm even sadder now that Bernie Mac has passed away, because this film is complete with full-on old school Bernie Mac, the raunchy and foul-mouthed hilarity I came to love of him before he became a household name and softened up his material (with his show, Mr.

3000, etc.). I loved the two of these guys in this film, especially Mac who truly stole it away from everybody. I will say some of the supporting cast had to lend a helping hand in upping the comedy level in this film by going beyond the limits of "wholesome" entertainment, particularly former pornstar Vanessa Del Rio (who's up in there age and a little bigger, but Jesus, she was hot) in a hilarious sex scene with Bernie Mac, Jennifer Coolidge (American Pie) in a hilarious sex scene with Bernie Mac, and Adam Herschman as the hilarious "manager" to the group.

There's also some brief, but nice performances from Sean Hayes, Issac Hayes (RIP), and Mike Epps. Good direction from Malcolm D. Lee (Undercover Brother, Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins) whose making better and better films.

Surpringsly hilarious and great movie.