The Best Man Holiday was a long-awaited blockbuster grossing over $30 million at the box office and gave a refreshing light on the ‘typical’ Black film. The reunion of the cast from The Best Man (1998) did not disappoint with audiences with witty comedic writing that told a story of reconnection and the transitions of life. The film stretched the boundaries of what Black film is ‘suppose to’ look like by showing realistic success and hardships that were not focused on ‘hood life’ and the dramatic circumstances that follow.
Harper and Robin are cautiously expecting their first child due to a previous miscarriage and financial hardships, of which Robin is unaware of. Julian and Candace have successfully launched a school that is also facing financial challenges due to a family secret that philanthropists were unaware of. Jordan is just as beautiful and successful as ever with a surprising new boyfriend that she has trouble fully committing to. Quentin has been overly successful as a branding agent for many celebs and has a new affection for marijuana (medical or not). Shelby has become a reality star queen with all the attitude to go with it and a daughter she neglects. Lance and Mia celebrate the success of Lance’s all-star football legacy as a cover of a tragic secret that unfolds when all the friends reunite.
This film is an instant classic that is led by an emotional roller coaster through laughter, tears, and love. The comedic portion was led by Terrance Howard who truly reconnected and grew his character Quentin to a new level of comedy. The tension felt between the rivaling friends over previous transgressions was felt all the way through the film until it came time for a point of forgiveness that would save them all. Although some parts of the plot were to be expected it did not ruin the emotional connection with the audience nor the story that is still replaying in everyone’s minds. There was no baby mama drama, shoot outs, or horrid broken English that many have come to expect of Black films.
Be prepared to laugh, cry, and feel uplifted by the story of friends who realize that their connection is the only key to survival.