"Three Can Play That Game" picks up with Shante Smith (Vivica Fox) in Atlanta where she is now a couples therapist. Unlike the first film where Vivica was talking to the audience trying to solve her own relationship problems (and a few friends), in this installment Vivica is counseling Byron Thompson (Jason Winston George) and Tiffany (Jazsmin Lewis). It's the same formula, but by making Vivica a celebrity therapist, the filmmakers actually gave her a reason to monologue. And Vivica is great when she's addressing the audience.
Shante is the role Vivica was meant to play. I've never seen her as good as she is in this part. Every little inflection is dead on (remember this line: "trick ass bitch!"), and I guarantee that if you got a kick out of her asides in the first one, you definitely will in this one.
But the real treat here is Jazsmin Lewis, who has been steadily growing as actress and is getting better with each film. She was good in "Tracie Townsend," but she's even better in this. She's beautiful and a great actress and I look forward to seeing her in even bigger projects.
Tony Rock is also good in this as the best friend coaching Byron's character, as is Terri Vaughn.
Finally... Melyssa Ford as Candy. I had been looking to see her in this movie. To be honest, even though she's eye candy extraordinaire, I've never been that impressed with screen presence. But she did a nice job here. She looks incredible--distractingly so--but her acting chops are respectable.
This movie lacks the brisk pacing of the first one, but it's thoroughly enjoyable. I found myself re-watching several scenes for kicks.
A nice sequel. Should have been in theaters.
P.S. Mark Brown is a true talent. Hope to keep seeing his movies.
