Kamal Smith is finally funny in this dark dramatic role. Ebony Tates' fine @ss once again proves why she consistently shines on screen; her portrayal is compelling and emotionally grounded. It's the writing falls short in places. It's evident when TOO many voices shape the narrative, resulting in a muddled perspective, especially from the female character's point of view.
The central "thug versus square" conflict is good but the woman's role feels misfired, she's written with a masculine lens that undermines authenticity. It's one thing to explore soft, sensitive men drawn to strong, masculine-presenting women; it's another to write a female character so unanchored in realistic emotion that she becomes an implausible caricature. The intention may have been bold, but the execution lacked the subtlety needed to sell the dynamic convincingly. It's what happened when men try to write from women's perspectives unconvincingly.
Despite these structural issues, the film held my attention and I give it a solid 8. These Detroit guys' movies are getting better.
