I Saw That!

One woman's opinions about popular entertainment.

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Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Amateur boxing coach, Christian (but not so heavenly-minded that I'm no earthly good) singer, writer, self-defense advocate, childfree. feminist www.smartwomenboxingtraining.org

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

The Fighting Temptations (2003)

Paulina (LaTanya Richardson), a small-town catty church member, has discovered that choir member Maryann (Faith Evans) has put out an album of secular music. Paulina forces her brother, Pastor Lewis (Wendell Pierce) to make Maryann choose between the choir and a music career. Maryann quits the choir and leaves town with her little boy, Darrin, to pursue her dreams of stardom.

Years later, Darrin (Cuba Gooding, Jr.) is an up-and-comer in an New York advertising agency. He's promoted to junior executive, but is fired later when it's discovered that he faked his educational credentials. Darrin is also up to his ears in debt. He receives notice that his aunt has died, and he returns to the small town for her funeral. His aunt has left him an inheritance that depends upon Darrin entering the church choir in a major singing competition. The choir needs a makeover. Darrin believes a childhood friend, Lilly (Beyonce Knowles) could help put the choir over the top. But first, he has to get past snooty, conservative Paulina.

This is a pleasant, feel-good movie with easy laughs and a predictable ending. The music is good, with performances by The O'Jays, Pastor Shirley Ceasar, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Montrell Jordan, Beyonce, Mary Mary (Erica and Trecina Campbell), Ann Nesby, and T-Bone. Mike Epps and Steve Harvey work well with their small roles.

Cuba Gooding Jr. is an Oscar winner for his role in Jerry Maguire (1996). Beyonce was in Dreamgirls. Rue McClanahan, who appeared in the series "Maude" and "The Golden Girls" is on hand as one of the choir members. Melba Moore also appears as a choir member.

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