A hang out, an oasis, a cultural institution – the barbershop provides a unique setting for tales told in MGM’s newest release Barbershop.
The ensemble cast includes Ice Cube as Calvin Palmer, Cedric the Entertainer as Eddie the barber, Sean Patrick Thomas as college student Jimmy, newcomer Michael Ealy as reformed ex-con Ricky, and rapper Eve as Terri, the lone female barber. Together, they set the stage for events that unfold at Calvin’s Barber Shop on the South Side of Chicago.
The film takes place in one Saturday. After realizing that he can’t pay the property tax, Calvin decides to sell his shop. His decision to sell the establishment suddenly causes him to see the shop as an extension of his father’s vision.
For the rest of the day, he deliberates on the best course of action to prevent a proposed strip joint from ousting his barbershop family of friends.
Co-producers George Tillman Jr. and Bob Teitel have created other films, including Soul Food, which delve into aspects of black life in America. Barbershop allows them to explore a different set of characters.
Director Tim Story uses his experience shooting music videos to create a great film set. This secluded world, usually devised for videos, translates well in Barbershop, where the realistic sets and props develop an authentic atmosphere.
Barbershop is a safe haven where characters come in for a trim but leave with some sage advice. After the lights are turned out for the day, important lessons has been learned at the Barbershop.
A winning film with some pleasant surprises, it’s worth the trip and the price. Barbershop is rated PG-13.