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Dr. Mike-3
Reviews
The Fighting Temptations (2003)
A predictably satisfying film
Director Jonathan Lynn understands the meaning of the phrase, "if it's not broke, don't fix it." "The Fighting Temptations" is a movie that is all about formula, but it's a formula that generally works. It's a cross between "Doc Hollywood" and "Sweet Home Alabama," but that's not bad now, is it? People have a need to connect with things that are real, and "Temptations" allows Cuba Gooding's character to do just that. You know the story: boy/girl leaves small hometown, tries to make it in the big city, returns to the small town only to rediscover where his/her heart is, then struggles with deciding if he/she should return to the concrete jungle, or return to the place where his/her heart is. Of course, we always root for the characters to follow their hearts, because we wish we would do the same. There are three things about this film that make it worth seeing. First, Gooding's character actually has a bit of depth, which is refreshing. On the surface, Gooding appears to be another run-of-the-mill con artist, using others to make his way in the world. But Lynn allows us to see glimpses of the pain Gooding has endured in his life, and although they are brief glimpses, they serve to remind us that we all hurt in some form, and that allows us to feel for him. Secondly, Beyonce Knowles is terrific. Lynn launched the careers of Marisa Tomei ("My Cousin Vinny"), Charlize Theron ("Trial and Error"), and Knowles may be next. Her presence and charisma make her very watchable, and in this film, she works within her limits and works well. But thirdly, the real strength of this film is the music, and this is where Lynn gets it so right. He never allows the movie to get in the way of its "star," understanding that the most appealing aspect of "The Fighting Temptations" is a musical score that's vibrant and energetic, with songs that represent both what is great about traditional Gospel music, and what is new about it. Knowing that the music is the main character, Lynn does not short-change us. He gives us mostly complete, expertly crafted renditions of songs performed by some really talented singers. "Temptations" is reminiscent of the classic musical, but the movie is not a musical. The music doesn't tell the story; the music is the story. If you understand that, and if you are a person who appreciates great music, you will enjoy this film.
Carman: The Champion (2001)
A former professional boxer risks his life for a Godly cause.
Former boxing champion Orlando Leone Jr. (Carman) wants to honor his late father by establishing an inner-city ministry for young people, but the building he has invested his life's earnings in will be lost if he can't come up with the final payment to secure the property. While moonlighting as a security guard in a posh L.A. hotel, Leone encounters current world cruiserweight champion Keshon Banks (Jeremy Williams), and when he goes to Banks' room to quell a disturbance, a fight breaks out in which Leone knocks out Banks with a single punch (caught on video by a local news crew). Banks' embarrassed promotors are forced to cancel his upcoming world title fight because of falling odds, and seeking to recoup their money, they rope Leone into fighting Banks for the title in a bout billed as "The Saint vs. The Sinner." Leone doesn't want the fight, but he is blackmailed by his brother Freddie (Michael Nouri), who has purchased the deed to Leone's property and threatens to sell it if Leone doesn't take the fight. The film is a little rough around the edges, and an alternate storyline about a youngster who is being harassed by some local gangsters is predictable and cliched. But all in all, it's a pretty good acting debut by Carman (who came up with the story and helped write the script). And the film refreshingly features an ending difficult to predict, given the events preceding the climactic moments. A scene in which Leone jogs through a vegetable market and catches an apple as he's running is a nice little tribute to Rocky Balboa, and Carman's obvious boxing skill gives his character a credibility that's lacking in many sports films featuring wannabe-athlete actors. Ultimately, it's a story about faith, hope, love and integrity.
The Hurricane (1999)
A film about Ruben Hurricane Carter's attempt to overcome his false imprisonment.
Possibly the best film of 1999. Denzel Washington is brilliant. When an actor of his stature is on screen, and you see his character as opposed to his celebrity, you know that Washington has done a good job. Predict a second Oscar for Washington. Film is nearly as good as he is.