A mediocre, utterly predictable and shallow drama aimed at teenagers, Honey might do some brisk business in the first few weeks.
However, it still feels like Honey has wasted the talents of good actors like Mekhi Phifer.
Undemanding viewers might find it somewhat funny. That is, if sex, navel gazing and midriff ogling is your idea of movie voyeurism. Also, there is a feel-good atmosphere.
Some viewers might also find the film uplifting. A young woman is drawn into the limelight and an opulent lifestyle, neglects her ghetto friends but ultimately realises where her heart should be.
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Though Jessica Alba isn't really convincing as a tough inner city cookie, she has a genial presence which adds to the film's appeal. Right now, she is just an actress waiting for better written stuff and a talented director.
Some reviewers may rush to compare this film to the Mariah Carey's Glitter because of a similar theme. It would be futile to do so. Glitter was DOA and who would remember it? Honey is a far more pleasant a film and could even turn into a medium sized hit, grossing about $40 million in North America.
Video director Michael (David Moscow) spots Honey (Jessica Alba) dancing in a club with her friend Gina (Joy Bryant who was angelic in Antwone Fisher). He recognises her talent not only as a dancer but also as a choreographer.
Honey thinks she has seen through Michael but even then, she goes along with him, taking quite some time to realise what a slimeball he is.
Meanwhile, Honey has distanced herself, though not consciously, from her friends in the hood, including the amiable barber Chaz (Mekhi Phifer), who has the hots for her. She has also neglected the kids Benny (Lil' Romeo) and Raymond (Zachary Isaiah Williams).
Honey's career could derail if she refuses Michael's overtures. She also realises she could get blacklisted.
When Honey refuses Michael, she is fired. But she won't be defeated or demoralised.
Soon she is trying to clean up the Bronx, taking on the drug dealers and having a big 'dance benefit' to save her mother's community centre.
Director Billie Woodruff fails to fill the film with genuine heartbeats, serious conflict and strong performances. But he gives it plenty of tempo and energy.
CREDITS:
Cast: Jessica Alba, Mekhi Phifer, Joy Bryant, L'il Romeo, Lil' Romeo
Direction: Bille Woodruff
Writers: Alonzo Brown and Kim Watson
Running time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Rating: PG-13 for drug content and some sexual references.
Released by: Universal Pictures
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