Jumping the Broom MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +3 Content: +2

Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, Julie Bowen, Paula Patton, Laz Alonso, Mike Epps, Tasha Smith, Gary Dourdan, Valarie Pettiford, Vera Cudjoe, Meagan Good, Romeo Miller, DeRay Davis. Comedy. Written by Elizabeth Hunter, Arlene Gibbs. Directed by Salim Akil.

FILM SYNOPSIS: Jumping the Broom is a lighthearted look at the clash between two families from different backgrounds during a weekend wedding.  The film explores the cultural and spiritual challenges of abstinence, motherhood, and family alongside themes such as forgiveness, family secrets, and misperceptions.

PREVIEW REVIEW: While it doesn’t attempt to preach, Jumping the Broom is a film that honestly explores values and beliefs often ignored by Hollywood comedy filmmakers. While some of the antics go a little over the top, much like the sitcom shenanigans that plagued The Beverly Hillbillies’ Clampetts and their neighbors, the Drysdales, there are some funny moments, some touching, and this is about the most buff cast I’ve seen. The only ones that don’t look as if they’ve spent hours daily in the gym are the token White extras in the background.

It’s not a great film, but I enjoyed the performances and the beautiful setting (New England’s Hamptons). What’s more, there is a sincere prayer and God is called upon on several occasions. The Creator is acknowledged, sending the message to audiences that there are people who reverence God and place Him at the core of their lives.

MOVIES: The Good, The Bad, And The Really, Really Bad by Phil Boatwright.
Along with 21 chapters that guide you safely through the maze of Hollywood mediocrity and the spiritually unrewarding, MOVIES offers countless references to films, plus spotlights on classics and soon to be classics. It’s a useful tool for parents and concerned moviegoers, one you’ll find yourself coming back to over and over. To order the book, go to Amazon.com and place the book title in the search box. New price: $13.45.

Preview Reviewer: Phil Boatwright
Distributor: Columbia Tri-Star