Seen on: November 8, 2008

The players: Director: Malcolm D. Lee, Writers: Matthew Stone, Robert Ramsey, Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Bernie Mac, Sharon Leal, Affion Crockett, P.J. Byrne, Sharon Leal, Isaac Hayes

Facts of interest: This is not Mac's final movie. His last one is "Old Dogs," due in theaters 2009.

The plot: Two soul legends try to settle their differences and reunite for a tribute to their recently deceased front man.

Our thoughts: “Soul Men” is Bernie Mac’s first movie to open since his death back in August, so it’s obviously quite an emotional experience to see this great comedian doing what he does best on the big screen. The film itself is certainly not one of this year’s funniest, but Mac and co-actor Samuel L. Jackson bring along enough energy to make this ride a decent one.

The story line of Malcolm D. Lee’s latest comedy is pretty straightforward: soul legends Floyd Henderson (Mac) and Louis Hinds (Jackson) embark on a cross-country road trip to Memphis, where they are expected to participate in a musical tribute to their recently deceased front man, Marcus Hook.

Getting to Tennessee is one thing, but settle old disputes and trying to get back in shape to perform proves to be a much harder mission for the two guys, who haven’t really spoken since the break-up of their band more than a decade ago. Still, despite all the past trouble, Floyd and Louis decide to ride together and put on one last good show to remember.

Considering “Soul Men” is a pretty standard road trip comedy, you’ll hardly find anything really surprising along the way. The focus here is obviously not so much on story, but rather on the two lead actors, who definitely succeed in turning in solid performances. Looking back at the movie now, I wish the filmmakers chose different priorities.

I totally agree that silly comedies can be highly entertaining without a sophisticated story line, but the problem with “Soul Men” is that its plot is at the same time slow-moving and uninteresting. I’m sure Mac and Jackson had a fabulous time filming the misadventures of their eccentric characters, but I found it quite hard to share their pleasure.

Besides vulgar but often funny dialogue and great songs, this film doesn’t have all too much going for it. No, for the most part, all you see is Floyd and Louis fighting over pretty much anything you can think of. Even watching them get back into shape to perform at the Apollo isn’t that hilarious, considering all they do is arguing.

The brilliant songs and the few stage appearances by the guys are what really keep “Soul Men” alive. The final third of the film also works much better than the dragging beginning, which at least makes all of it a passable experience. The movie also features an appearance by Isaac Hayes, who shockingly enough passed away just one day after Bernie Mac.

Freaky quote: “You best not to provoke me." – Samuel L. Jackson

The final word: “Soul Men” is definitely a bad or a totally boring movie, but it lacks the certain comedic spark to make it a memorable one. I wish Mac and Jackson had a better script to work with, because they carry this thing on their shoulders throughout. I also suggest you stay put once the end credits start rolling. What you’ll get in return is a very emotional tribute to both Mac and Hayes.

Article by Franck Tabouring