Matthew Nash Henderson

Coming 2 America is great. And like its predecessor is heart felt, visually appetizing, and a different perspective of a magical love story. First off...the cast is wonderful, and the range of characters from Murphy & Hall are wondeful comic vehicles throughout the whole movie. The newer additions of Wesley Snipes and Leslies Jones both shine in very distinct roles, as well as the younger women cast as the Princesses as they are so beautiful and talented. There were also too many cameos to count...Morgan Freeman to En Vogue, Gladys Knight to Colin Jost. James Earl Jones is delightful if just for the first few scenes and captures the original bravado of the King. The current Queen(Shari Headly) has evolved from classy girl of Queens to real Royalty, and in the characterization allows the air of her role to carry her differently. John Amos, Loius Anderson, Izzi the double arc...even the royal announcer...all are back to stroke our imagination. Together it creates a world that could very well be entwined in our own. I applaud the representation of this film and is predecessor...as it helps enrich the black experience...and celebrates continental heritage and culture. Like the original...the costuming itself deserves an Oscar. This film has a very distinct feel to the original...they are both unique masterpieces. Every ornate placement of jewlery, and the inticate crowns, gowns and capes... even the backgroundund cast are full decked out. The entirty of the movie is blocked such. I was enthrawled with the craftmansship and uniquness of contemporary African couture. And frequently through the movies are pieces placed in unconventional ways..a mixed media of shells, metals, jewels, and silk. I dont think I can compare it to any current movie on the market. And unlike the chic pastels of the original...this embraces a more luxurious and ethereal quality. Apparently it was filmed in Rick Ross' house...and may I just say the man has great taste....or maybe that's the set designers. Just like the costumes...the decor is both culturally beautiful and modern. There are pieces that i would love in my own home and could also see in museums. The backstory plot is worked almost effortlessly into the current timeline with a flashback clearing up any mystery. It keeps the flow of the movie and introduces the new ensemble quickly. Thus creating a time crunch and the necessity of a love story. And although the writing gets a little sticky...the actors characterizations keep the movie alive. The love development between Javelle and his Royal Groomer (Nomzamo Mbatha) was too short. I wish there was more time to explore their chemistry. It was notable in their first scene... but wasnt given enough real time to really evolve. But the packaging of the movie is more about letting everyone shine than just a too be prince. Acting MVP - Welsey Snipes as General Izzi. He is both intimidating and fun...with swagger and humour. I really appreciated his dedication to this individual and really shows his versatility. Biggest perk- the costuming is divine. I hope that in my life I can wear something half as beautiful. Overall Im glad the audience can visit Zumanda again...and honestly hope that we can explore the lives of the young princesses in the future.