Review of Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins (2008) by Lewis E — 15 Jun 2014

Martin Lawrence, Cedric the Entertainer, Mike Epps. 15 years ago, these would have been three major incentives to place a movie on the must-watch list. Now, these names are just another reminder of how the quality of black comedies have declined since the 90s. Gone are the days of 'Friday' or even 'Big Momma's House'.

'Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins' is a mess of clichés, stereotypes and poor slapstick humour, with even the dreaded fart jokes making an appearance. Lawrence & co put minimal effort into pulling off the same shocked facial expressions and over-the-top reactions over and over again, expecting to eventually force a laugh. Mo'Nique's loud and inconsiderate comments are the only occasional source of decent comedy, but it is not good enough to overshadow the severe lack of it everywhere else.

Don't come here looking for a good comedy cause you won't find one. Admittedly, it is easy on the brain and so conveniently serves as something to have on in the background at a family/friend gathering. In truth though, this is probably because no one is really watching the TV at these events and therefore it doesn't matter what is on.