Review of Soul Men (2008) by Brendan H — 12 Nov 2008

It's amazing on how much your opinion on a person changes after that person dies. That's the case with and Bernie Mac, someone who I didn't really know as an actor until now, when it was too late.

Now after seeing some of his work and now his final film, Soul Men, I've gained a respect for this comedian, who turned out to be one of the more funny guys out there. Dane Cook wishes he had the respect, let alone talent to match.

I only wish Bernie's last was a little stronger in story, but the story really doesn't hurt the awesomeness Bernie shines throughout. It's a fantastic performance and beyond funny and he's half of what makes this movie.

Sam Jackson is also amazing in this movie, doing his kick-butt stuff as usual. I personally didn't like Lakeview Terrace, but this makes up for that mistake. Both Mac and Jackson have a wonderful chemistry and make the perfect singing duo, by the way, the songs are fantastic, showing that Mac and Jackson are made up of multiple talents.

The story these two great characters are in, doesn't really work to the needed standards. There's plenty of funny moments, but it gets too dry every once in a while and the flow goes off. Still, the chemistry is there and the funny factor is present, but a good story really makes a difference.

You can find a little heart in it all, but the vulgar stuff may get in the way. It's perfect to have Bernie Mac to be in a vulgar movie for his last, those were more "appropriate" for him.

The tribute to Mac in the end is actually reason enough to see this thing, it's really well done and puts on a whole new mourning level for the great comedian. And don't worry, Isaac Hayes is also mentioned in it too, you just can't forget him.

In the end, Soul Men as whole isn't that great of movie, but Bernie Mac's and Sam Jackson's chemistry is strong, the humor is quite solid, if not, a little immature and Mac's performance is one of great value that all fans of the late comedy master should.

And since it's a buddy flick, you may end up appreciating your own buddies even more after this, because life's unpredictable and you never know who's staying or going. R.I.P. Bernie Mac, you're a true a soul man.