A Good Man Is Hard to Find

Based on a popular stage play, A Good Man Is Hard to Find contains some universal truths, but—by and large—specifically tells a story about young African-Americans having difficulties in finding and keeping suitable mates. Director Leslie Small's adaptation of David Payton's original play introduces viewers to three close friends: Rachel (Golden Brooks), whose handsome husband Clarence (Darrin Dewitt Henson) is coveted by most of the women at the local church where he's a deacon; Charlene (Deborah Cox), who's afraid she may already have lost control of her philandering husband Bruce (Darius McCrary); and Monica (Melissa De Sousa), who keeps looking for love in all the wrong places while ignoring her loyal, long-time friend Jasper (Mel Jackson). The film is reminiscent of Tyler Perry's recent Why Did I Get Married?—in fact, it shares themes and character types found throughout Perry's entire oeuvre—but the cast members aren't especially forceful, and in driving certain points home Small occasionally resorts to sledgehammer tactics. Still, the film's heart is in the right place. A strong optional purchase. (E. Hulse)