The episode of The Test of Time covering Tales from the Hood was Written by Andrew Hatfield, Narrated by Niki Minter, Edited by Mike Conway, Produced by John Fallon and Tyler Nichols, and Executive Produced by Berge Garabedian.
For the most part on this show, we are looking at certified classics to see if they still hold up. For the most part, anyway. Looking at you C.H.U.D. We try to look at everything from the cinematography and direction to the acting and special effects. Sometimes though the story ends up being the most important aspect of the movie. Every now and then a movie needs a reappraisal even when it wasn’t a hit at the time or seen as a classic. Look at what happened to The Thing. From box office dud (even though that has been blown out of proportion) and critical hatred to topping...
For the most part on this show, we are looking at certified classics to see if they still hold up. For the most part, anyway. Looking at you C.H.U.D. We try to look at everything from the cinematography and direction to the acting and special effects. Sometimes though the story ends up being the most important aspect of the movie. Every now and then a movie needs a reappraisal even when it wasn’t a hit at the time or seen as a classic. Look at what happened to The Thing. From box office dud (even though that has been blown out of proportion) and critical hatred to topping...
- 6/30/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Tupac Shakur left quite an impact on his peers. The beloved rapper and actor starred in five critically acclaimed movies before his death at the age of 25. Directors have been open about their belief that he would have fully transitioned into acting because his talent was that great. One who feels that way is John SIngleton, who worked closely with Tupac and continued to admire him. Singleton even has an item dedicated to Tupac in his estate that’s now worth 75k.
Tupac Shakur | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images Tupac was initially supposed to star in ‘Baby Boy’
The rapper was set to star as the lead in the 2001 drama. Singer Tyrese did a dual Instagram Live video with Fat Joe where he spoke about Singleton detailing how Tupac was meant to play the character.
At the time Singleton was set to originally begin casting the film, Tupac was in LA...
Tupac Shakur | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images Tupac was initially supposed to star in ‘Baby Boy’
The rapper was set to star as the lead in the 2001 drama. Singer Tyrese did a dual Instagram Live video with Fat Joe where he spoke about Singleton detailing how Tupac was meant to play the character.
At the time Singleton was set to originally begin casting the film, Tupac was in LA...
- 2/11/2023
- by Brenda Alexander
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
It’s no stretch to say that Rusty Cundieff’s 1995 horror film “Tales from the Hood” has become a cult classic in its own right. The film launched a franchise that now includes three films. The latest installment — led by Candyman Tony Todd — premiered on the SyFy network this month, and can now be streamed on Amazon Prime and other VOD platforms. “Tales from the Hood 3” comes with the same degree of social commentary as the previous two films.
From a searing indictment of gentrification featuring a murderous realtor (London Brown) to a right-wing nutjob (Cooper Huckabee) who attempts to protect his property from a diverse America, the movie hits a lot of nerves at once. Once again, Spike Lee serves as executive producer, while Darin Scott co-directed and wrote the last two entries with Cundieff.
“Tales from the Hood” has lost none of its relevance today. While the franchise...
From a searing indictment of gentrification featuring a murderous realtor (London Brown) to a right-wing nutjob (Cooper Huckabee) who attempts to protect his property from a diverse America, the movie hits a lot of nerves at once. Once again, Spike Lee serves as executive producer, while Darin Scott co-directed and wrote the last two entries with Cundieff.
“Tales from the Hood” has lost none of its relevance today. While the franchise...
- 10/29/2020
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
The star-studded 20 th Annual Emmys Golf Classic raised over $300,000 for the Television Academy Foundation.
Cedric the Entertainer Hosts 20th Emmys Golf Classic
Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the nonprofit Foundation’s renowned educational programs.
Television stars, entertainment industry executives, Television Academy Foundation leadership and corporate partners competed in the golf tournament at the Wilshire Country Club in Los Angeles, California, on Monday, Oct. 28.
Hosted for the third consecutive year by Cedric the Entertainer ( The Neighborhood), the event included competitors from some of television’s top shows: Anthony Alabi ( Raven’s Home; Family Reunion), Philip Boyd ( The Haves and the Have Nots), Andy Buckley ( Shameless), Matt Corboy ( Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television), Matt Craven ( Unspeakable; Sharp Objects), Patrika Darbo ( Aunt Cissy; Indoor Boys), Arturo Del Puerto ( For All Mankind), Pat Finn ( The Middle), Terry Gannon (NBC Sports and the Golf Channel), Max Greenfield ( The Neighborhood), Brennin Hunt ( Rent: Live...
Cedric the Entertainer Hosts 20th Emmys Golf Classic
Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the nonprofit Foundation’s renowned educational programs.
Television stars, entertainment industry executives, Television Academy Foundation leadership and corporate partners competed in the golf tournament at the Wilshire Country Club in Los Angeles, California, on Monday, Oct. 28.
Hosted for the third consecutive year by Cedric the Entertainer ( The Neighborhood), the event included competitors from some of television’s top shows: Anthony Alabi ( Raven’s Home; Family Reunion), Philip Boyd ( The Haves and the Have Nots), Andy Buckley ( Shameless), Matt Corboy ( Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television), Matt Craven ( Unspeakable; Sharp Objects), Patrika Darbo ( Aunt Cissy; Indoor Boys), Arturo Del Puerto ( For All Mankind), Pat Finn ( The Middle), Terry Gannon (NBC Sports and the Golf Channel), Max Greenfield ( The Neighborhood), Brennin Hunt ( Rent: Live...
- 11/5/2019
- Look to the Stars
John Singleton, the groundbreaking film director, screenwriter and producer, died Monday in Los Angeles after suffering a stroke on April 17. He was 51. A family spokesperson said Singleton passed away peacefully at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, surrounded by his family and friends.
“We want to thank the amazing doctors at Cedars-Sinai Hospital for their expert care and kindness and we again want thank all of John’s fans, friends and colleagues for all of the love and support they showed him during this difficult time,” the family said in a statement.
Earlier on Monday, the family had made the decision to remove Singleton from life support at Cedars, where he had been in the ICU unit since suffering the stroke 13 days earlier. Singleton suffered the stroke while at the hospital and had been “under great medical care.”
A two-time Oscar nominee for writing and directing his debut film Boyz N the Hood...
“We want to thank the amazing doctors at Cedars-Sinai Hospital for their expert care and kindness and we again want thank all of John’s fans, friends and colleagues for all of the love and support they showed him during this difficult time,” the family said in a statement.
Earlier on Monday, the family had made the decision to remove Singleton from life support at Cedars, where he had been in the ICU unit since suffering the stroke 13 days earlier. Singleton suffered the stroke while at the hospital and had been “under great medical care.”
A two-time Oscar nominee for writing and directing his debut film Boyz N the Hood...
- 4/29/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Bill Cosby's 3 to 10 year prison sentence reeks of unfairness and sets a dangerous precedent for the future ... so says fellow comedian Joe Torry. We got Joe at Lax Sunday and he told us it's crazy to see what the judicial system is doing to someone he regards as an American hero. Joe thinks Cosby's punishment for sexual assault is the first domino to fall ... because more people will end up in prison for mistakes they made "100 years ago.
- 10/1/2018
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Netflix is bringing back “Def Comedy Jam” for its 25th anniversary, the streaming service announced Thursday. The teaser introduces a number of big names that’ll be appearing, including Bill Bellamy, Cedric the Entertainer, Dave Chappelle, Mike Epps, Adele Givens, Eddie Griffin, Tiffany Haddish, Kevin Hart, Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Kid Capri, Martin Lawrence, Tracy Morgan, Craig Robinson, Jb Smoove, Sommore, Joe Torry, Sheryl Underwood and Katt Williams. Netflix added that due to the big celebration, there will also be surprise guests, tributes and performances. Also Read: Jon Stewart Returns to HBO for First Stand-Up Special in 21 Years Stan Lathan,...
- 8/24/2017
- by Carli Velocci
- The Wrap
Even though HBO and Russell Simmons are back in business with a new comedy series, Simmons will celebrate the 25th anniversary of his old HBO show, “Def Comedy Jam,” at rival Netflix instead.
Netflix announced Thursday that it would premiere “Def Comedy Jam 25” this fall. Performers include Bill Bellamy, Cedric the Entertainer, Dave Chappelle, Mike Epps, Adele Givens, Eddie Griffin, Tiffany Haddish, Kevin Hart, Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Kid Capri, Martin Lawrence, Tracy Morgan, Craig Robinson, Jb Smoove, Sommore and Joe Torry.
“Russell Simmons’ Def Comedy Jam” aired on HBO from 1992 to 1997 and briefly returned in 2006. The show helped turn some of the stand-ups mentioned above into stars. Simmons, Stan Lathan, Sandy Wernick and Jesse Collins are executive producers of “Def Comedy Jam 25.”
Netflix has been aggressive in the comedy space, aggressively acquiring an entire docket of stand-up specials.
Here’s a teaser trailer for the special:
The return of “Def Comedy Jam,...
Netflix announced Thursday that it would premiere “Def Comedy Jam 25” this fall. Performers include Bill Bellamy, Cedric the Entertainer, Dave Chappelle, Mike Epps, Adele Givens, Eddie Griffin, Tiffany Haddish, Kevin Hart, Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Kid Capri, Martin Lawrence, Tracy Morgan, Craig Robinson, Jb Smoove, Sommore and Joe Torry.
“Russell Simmons’ Def Comedy Jam” aired on HBO from 1992 to 1997 and briefly returned in 2006. The show helped turn some of the stand-ups mentioned above into stars. Simmons, Stan Lathan, Sandy Wernick and Jesse Collins are executive producers of “Def Comedy Jam 25.”
Netflix has been aggressive in the comedy space, aggressively acquiring an entire docket of stand-up specials.
Here’s a teaser trailer for the special:
The return of “Def Comedy Jam,...
- 8/24/2017
- by Michael Schneider
- Indiewire
Bill and Camille Cosby arrived arm-in-arm to the courthouse in Norristown, Pennsylvania, on Monday morning.
Camille, 73, was all smiles as she escorted her husband into the government building. This is the first time Cosby's wife has been seen at the courthouse since the 79-year-old comedian's criminal trial began last week. The Cosby Show star is charged with three counts of aggravated indecent assault for allegedly drugging and molesting former Temple University employee Andrea Constand in January 2004 at his mansion in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. If convicted, Cosby could face up to 10 years in prison. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and has repeatedly denied similar claims from numerous other women.
More: Bill Cosby Faces Accuser Andrea Constand in Court During Sexual Assault Trial
Meanwhile in court, it was the defense's turn to present their case after the prosecution called up 12 witnesses -- including Constand who took the stand two days in a row -- before...
Camille, 73, was all smiles as she escorted her husband into the government building. This is the first time Cosby's wife has been seen at the courthouse since the 79-year-old comedian's criminal trial began last week. The Cosby Show star is charged with three counts of aggravated indecent assault for allegedly drugging and molesting former Temple University employee Andrea Constand in January 2004 at his mansion in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. If convicted, Cosby could face up to 10 years in prison. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and has repeatedly denied similar claims from numerous other women.
More: Bill Cosby Faces Accuser Andrea Constand in Court During Sexual Assault Trial
Meanwhile in court, it was the defense's turn to present their case after the prosecution called up 12 witnesses -- including Constand who took the stand two days in a row -- before...
- 6/12/2017
- Entertainment Tonight
Bill Cosby arrived to the courthouse Friday with comedian Joe Torry by his side, oblivious to the fact he dodged a fatal bullet courtesy of his own lawyers. Cosby's attorneys had filed legal docs asking the judge to allow them to introduce evidence accuser Andrea Constand was gay. He bizarrely wanted to show the jury she deceived him ... suggesting he would not have had sex with her if he knew she was gay. The...
- 6/9/2017
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
[[tmz:video id="0_qtgli485"]] Bill Cosby was met by taunts, and a Helen Reddy classic, as he exited his sexual assault trial. One woman made sure Cosby heard her roar outside the Montgomery County Courthouse in Pa ... as she blasted "I Am Woman" on speakers. Cosby calmly walked past with comedian Joe Torry on his arm. He never reacted visibly, but there's no doubt ... he had to hear the music and the jeers. Earlier Thursday, Cosby seemed very relaxed as he entered court.
- 6/9/2017
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Bill Cosby is in the middle of a trial for allegedly sexually assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004. He has been surrounded by supporters in court, but he has not been seen publicly with wife Camille since April and she has not been in the courtroom.
Cosby’s spokesman Andrew Wyatt has told People she plans to attend the trial, and she has remained supportive of her husband of more than 50 years before and after he was charged with sexual assault in 2014.
“She is going to come one day — I haven’t figured out which day yet,” Wyatt tells People.
“Camille is...
Cosby’s spokesman Andrew Wyatt has told People she plans to attend the trial, and she has remained supportive of her husband of more than 50 years before and after he was charged with sexual assault in 2014.
“She is going to come one day — I haven’t figured out which day yet,” Wyatt tells People.
“Camille is...
- 6/8/2017
- by Nicole Weisensee Egan and KC Baker
- PEOPLE.com
Bill Cosby brought More celeb pals to court for day 4 of his sexual assault trial. Cosby walked in with comedian Joe Torry and actor Lewis Dix Jr. Thursday, and the pals seemed very relaxed, even jovial -- despite serious allegations against Cosby. Earlier this week, Cosby arrived at court locked arm-in-arm with Keshia Knight Pulliam ... and on Wednesday with another former co-star, Sheila Frazier. As we reported, the person who hasn't been by his side yet is his wife,...
- 6/8/2017
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
I guess Joe Torry's out as host... Atlanta, Aug. 16, 2012 -- Bounce TV (www.bouncetv.com), the fastest growing African American network in television, will premiere the second season of its original comedy series Uptown Comic this fall with actor and comedian Rodney Perry (Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family, Mo'Nique Show) as host, it was announced today by Bounce TV Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Katz. Uptown Comic is a half-hour series featuring stand-up performances by some of the hottest up-and-coming comics in the country. The show's second season will begin production in Atlanta this month. "Uptown Comic was an instant hit with Bounce TV...
- 8/16/2012
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
A reminder for tonight; but first check out Nijla's interviews (posted earlier today) with the stars of both new sereis, Omar Gooding (Family Ties) Here; Joe Torry (Uptown Comic) Here. Bounce TV to Premiere Network's First Two Original Series; Sitcom Family Time and Comedy Show Uptown Comic on Monday, June 18 Atlanta, June 13, 2012 -- Bounce TV (http://bouncetv.com), the nation's first-ever over-the-air broadcast television network for African Americans, will launch its first two original series with Family Time and Uptown Comic on June 18 at 9:00 pm. and 9:30 pm Edt. Bounce TV's original series Family...
- 6/18/2012
- by Courtney
- ShadowAndAct
Comedian and actor Joe Torry will host Uptown Comic, a new comedy series that also premieres tonight on Bounce TV, following Omar Gooding’s Family Time, which I previously profiled Here. Torry's show features live stage and skit performances by emerging comedians from around the country, and is produced by Rainforest Films, who brought us Think Like A Man. It is filmed in front of a live studio audience at the Center Stage in Atlanta. Drawing from his past work hosting HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, Torry offers his insight into the differences in today’s broadcast comedic landscape, why he prefers old school comedians, and his reaction to Think Like A Man. Uptown Comic...
- 6/18/2012
- by Nijla Mumin
- ShadowAndAct
Joe Torry, Doll Phace, Snoop Dogg and Mechelle Epps attend Doll Phace's Let's Go to Vegas featuring Snoop Dogg music video shoot at the Conga Room. Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. Anthony Cherry attends Doll Phace's Let's Go to Vegas featuring Snoop Dogg music video shoot at the Conga Room. Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. Gramma Funk and Mechelle Epps attend Doll Phace's Let's Go to Vegas featuring Snoop Dogg music video shoot at the Conga Room. Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. Snoop Dogg attends Doll Phace's Let's Go to Vegas featuring Snoop Dogg music video shoot at the Conga Room. Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. Mechelle Epps,...
- 1/17/2011
- by Michelle Wray
- Monsters and Critics
Regina King's Life on Screen227ESSENCE Magazine's February 2011 cover star Regina King made her acting debut in 1985 on the legendary comedy "227" as Brenda Jenkins. That show played upon King's strong suit — comedy — which she would follow through her impressive resume. Let's take a look back at King's life on-screen...Poetic JusticeAs sassy Iesha, King was serving up drama and attitude in John Singleton's "Poetic Justice" (1993) starring Janet Jackson, Tupac Shakur and Joe Torry.Higher LearningKing reunited with director John Singleton to play college student Monet in 1995's "Higher Learning."FridayWho can ever forget King (playing Ice Cube's younger sister Dana) sleeping with her head upright so she wouldn't mess up her hairstyle in the 1995 classic "Friday?" We can relate, girl.A Thin Line Between Love and HateIn this 1996 classic, King played Martin Lawrence's childhood sweetheart Mia.Jerry MaguireKing stole the show with her passionate portrayal of...
- 1/17/2011
- Essence
KiKi Shepard, Angell Conwell and Aldis Hodge attend KiKi Shepard's 2010 K.I.S. foundation gift giveaway and holiday party.Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. Joe Torry attends KiKi Shepard's 2010 K.I.S. foundation gift giveaway and holiday party.Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. Vanessa Bell Calloway, KiKi Shepard and Angell Conwell attend KiKi Shepard's 2010 K.I.S. foundation gift giveaway and holiday party.Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. Edwin Hodge and Porscha Coleman attend KiKi Shepard's 2010 K.I.S. foundation gift giveaway and holiday party.Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. KiKi Shepard's attends 2010 K.I.S. foundation gift giveaway and holiday party.Photo copyright Koi Sojer / PR Photos. 12/23/2010 - Angell Conwell - KiKi Shepard's 2010...
- 12/30/2010
- by Michelle Wray
- Monsters and Critics
We just discovered that comedian Joe Torry has been quietly building up some great momentum with several new ventures about to drop in the market, besides just doing standup.
First up, we hear that Torry has recently signed a Voicetone deal with Universal Music Group and a new company titled Krazy Swag Entertainment that will jointly make available their new product on June 29th.
We also discovered a new film project that Torry has taken on, tentatively titled Pawn Shop, (which is being produced by Torry), and he is also taking on a new TV project as he is currently filming a new reality show with his brother Guy Torry. We hear there are several networks interested which may include Bet, VH1 and/or Comedy Central- but we can't say for certain yet. We do know that the full details on the show will be released soon.
Finally, we...
First up, we hear that Torry has recently signed a Voicetone deal with Universal Music Group and a new company titled Krazy Swag Entertainment that will jointly make available their new product on June 29th.
We also discovered a new film project that Torry has taken on, tentatively titled Pawn Shop, (which is being produced by Torry), and he is also taking on a new TV project as he is currently filming a new reality show with his brother Guy Torry. We hear there are several networks interested which may include Bet, VH1 and/or Comedy Central- but we can't say for certain yet. We do know that the full details on the show will be released soon.
Finally, we...
- 5/6/2010
- by noreply@blogger.com (The Humor Mill Magazine)
- Humor Mill Magazine
Carmen Electra, Vivica A. Fox, Bill Bellamy and Stacey Dash will star in the indie Getting Played for writer-director David Silberg. Played is lensing in Los Angeles. The project, penned by first-time helmer Silberg, revolves around three beautiful women (Electra, Fox, Dash) who have had their share of men trouble. The trio enter into a game of fun by trying to seduce a random target that they must catch on video. Problems arise when the random man (Bellamy) is in on the joke. Joe Torry, Dorian Gregory and Kathy Najimy round out the cast. Fox also is producing the project along with Lita Richardson, Michael Catalano and Silberg. Eric Manlunas is executive producing. Michael Feifer is co-producing. Electra is repped by UTA, Untitled Entertainment and the law firm Rosenfeld, Meyer & Susman. Her new series, Til Death Do Us Part, which chronicles the nuptials of Electra and rocker Dave Navarro, premieres next week on MTV. Fox is repped by Writers and Artists Group International. Bellamy is repped by CAA, Management 360 and attorney Nina Shaw. Dash is repped by Michael & Associates.
- 1/19/2004
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The title refers to the duller half of this comedy of the sexes, a nice guy with dreams who woos a cautious lady who has been "played" too many times. But it's their devious best friends who steal the movie in Trimark Pictures' amiable "Sprung".
The third film from co-writer/director/co-star Rusty Cundieff ("Tales From the Hood", "Fear of a Black Hat"), "Sprung" will score with black audiences and win the filmmaker more fans. Crossover business should be negligible given the lackluster marketing, but its rap will be successful in ancillary formats.
In the lusty, romantic tale of four friends, Cundieff's restrained approach to the love affair between his honest, sensitive character and Tisha Campbell's tough-talking, independent woman adds some traditional machinations and pacing to the loosely plotted farce. Their motivations are obvious, but beyond looking terrific, alas, they are dull folks.
Not so their best friends. Brandy (Campbell) and her voluptuous, gold digger gal-pal Adina Paula Jai Parker) are on the hunt for men, but the latter's unfailing radar system (complete with on-screen graphics) can spot all the wrong types and they grow discouraged. In a snappy send-off, the four principals cross paths at a party, with best friends Montel (Cundieff) and Clyde (Joe Torry) arriving in a borrowed Porsche.
Thinking she's nabbed a guy with a "wide" one (wallet, that is), Adina drives off with Clyde. She grows suspicious when he takes her to his ugly apartment, but they still go for broke in one of the rowdiest, naughtiest sex scenes in recent memory.
Adina finds out soon after that Clyde is a fraud and they break up in spectacular fashion, leading to his arrest for lewd conduct and a marvelously risque police lineup sequence, with veteran funnyman John Witherspoon as a knuckleheaded detective. Adina and Clyde have no regrets, but they fear seeing each other in the future if Brandy and Montel become a real couple.
The devilish duo of Adina and Clyde try simple schemes first and then turn to hardball tactics to derail their friends' relationship.
Cundieff can't resist getting in a comment about how black cinema is dominated by violence, but he needs to work harder as a performer to succeed on his own terms. As a director, he displays solid craftsmanship but little cinematic vision, acceptable for a modest project such as this.
SPRUNG
Trimark Pictures
A Darin Scott production
In association with Trimark Prods.
A Rusty Cundieff film
Director Rusty Cundieff
Producer Darin Scott
Writers Rusty Cundieff, Darin Scott
Executive producer Mark Amin
Director of photography Joao Fernandes
Editor Lisa Bromwell
Production designer Terrence Foster
Music Stanley Clarke
Costume designer Tracey White
Casting Tony Lee
Color/stereo
Cast:
Brandy Tisha Campbell
Montel Rusty Cundieff
Adina Paula Jai Parker
Clyde Joe Torry
Detective John Witherspoon
Veronica Jennifer Lee
Running time -- 109 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
The third film from co-writer/director/co-star Rusty Cundieff ("Tales From the Hood", "Fear of a Black Hat"), "Sprung" will score with black audiences and win the filmmaker more fans. Crossover business should be negligible given the lackluster marketing, but its rap will be successful in ancillary formats.
In the lusty, romantic tale of four friends, Cundieff's restrained approach to the love affair between his honest, sensitive character and Tisha Campbell's tough-talking, independent woman adds some traditional machinations and pacing to the loosely plotted farce. Their motivations are obvious, but beyond looking terrific, alas, they are dull folks.
Not so their best friends. Brandy (Campbell) and her voluptuous, gold digger gal-pal Adina Paula Jai Parker) are on the hunt for men, but the latter's unfailing radar system (complete with on-screen graphics) can spot all the wrong types and they grow discouraged. In a snappy send-off, the four principals cross paths at a party, with best friends Montel (Cundieff) and Clyde (Joe Torry) arriving in a borrowed Porsche.
Thinking she's nabbed a guy with a "wide" one (wallet, that is), Adina drives off with Clyde. She grows suspicious when he takes her to his ugly apartment, but they still go for broke in one of the rowdiest, naughtiest sex scenes in recent memory.
Adina finds out soon after that Clyde is a fraud and they break up in spectacular fashion, leading to his arrest for lewd conduct and a marvelously risque police lineup sequence, with veteran funnyman John Witherspoon as a knuckleheaded detective. Adina and Clyde have no regrets, but they fear seeing each other in the future if Brandy and Montel become a real couple.
The devilish duo of Adina and Clyde try simple schemes first and then turn to hardball tactics to derail their friends' relationship.
Cundieff can't resist getting in a comment about how black cinema is dominated by violence, but he needs to work harder as a performer to succeed on his own terms. As a director, he displays solid craftsmanship but little cinematic vision, acceptable for a modest project such as this.
SPRUNG
Trimark Pictures
A Darin Scott production
In association with Trimark Prods.
A Rusty Cundieff film
Director Rusty Cundieff
Producer Darin Scott
Writers Rusty Cundieff, Darin Scott
Executive producer Mark Amin
Director of photography Joao Fernandes
Editor Lisa Bromwell
Production designer Terrence Foster
Music Stanley Clarke
Costume designer Tracey White
Casting Tony Lee
Color/stereo
Cast:
Brandy Tisha Campbell
Montel Rusty Cundieff
Adina Paula Jai Parker
Clyde Joe Torry
Detective John Witherspoon
Veronica Jennifer Lee
Running time -- 109 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
- 5/16/1997
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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