Southside With You

Inspired by Barack and Michelle Obama's first date, Southside With You is set in Chicago during the summer of 1989, when smart, serious, and self-confident Michelle Robinson (Tika Sumpter)—a second-year corporate lawyer—accepts an invitation from Barack (Parker Sawyers), a junior colleague whom she is mentoring, to attend a meeting regarding a low-income community center. Insisting to her parents that this is not a date, Michelle, nevertheless, takes care in preparing for this expedition. Their first stop is the Art Institute, where Harvard-educated Barack impresses her with his knowledge of art. Driving his rattletrap yellow Datsun, chain-smoking Barack seems laidback, particularly when he delivers an inspiring speech that emphasizes consideration and empathy. Michelle then agrees to dinner and going to see Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing. A chance encounter with a law firm partner impels Michelle to inform Barack that their relationship should be professional and platonic, which is followed by a kiss, as her reserve melts outside a Baskin-Robbins ice cream parlor. Director Richard Tanne's low-key film feels remarkably authentic, with Michelle and Barack discussing family, race, and career ambitions. A sweet true-life story, this is recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by writer-director Richard Tanne, original artwork and animations, and trailers. Bottom line: a small extras package for a charming portrait of the development of the Obamas' relationship.] (S. Granger)