April 19, 2012 by Vinnie Leduc
Based on Steve Harvey’s best-selling self-help book (Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man: What Men Really Think About Love, Relationships, Intimacy, and Commitment), the movie presents love as a guys-vs.-girls war, and for battles recounted in Think Like A Man, the gals constantly refer to the Family Feud host’s guide on guys as a bible of sorts to capture or manipulate men to their pleasing.
Much like his first feature film (Barbershop), director Tim Story often relies on quick-witted banter from his extensive cast to carry the comedy. The rapid-fire dialogue is definitely the movie’s biggest strength. It’s not difficult to follow, but you will miss some excellent, subtle jokes if you’re not paying close attention. While I’m not much of a Kevin Hart fan (I didn’t like his stand-up documentary Laugh At My Pain), the little but loud comedian, who also serves as the film’s narrator despite occasional appearances by Steve Harvey as himself, delivers funny moments as a scene stealer most of the time.
The rest of the primary cast is pretty strong and includes Michael Ealy (last seen in Underworld: Awakening earlier this year and who broke out in Barbershop), Romany Malco (Weeds), Jerry Ferrara (in his biggest role outside of Entourage), Gabrielle Union (Dwyane Wade’s squeeze), Meagan Good (so hot, rrrrrrrr), Regina Hall (Superhero Movie and all the Scary Movies), and Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson.
While it flourishes during the discussions, Think Like A Man tends to flounder during the dates in between. This is worsened by the silly score of Christopher Lennertz, whose latest work on Mass Effect 3 and Horrible Bosses (our pick for Best Comedy of 2011) shows that he’s capable of better stuff. Along with the soundtrack, it tells you how you’re supposed to be feeling.
Full of supporting roles, cameos, and appearances by pop singers, TV personalities, and athletes (stay for the extra scenes during the credits), Think Like A Man is a C+ movie that gets a little grades boost like Lockout did last week. It’s not essential viewing while it’s in theaters, but it’s a solid date option if you can’t wait for next week’s Five-Year Engagement. Think Like A Man gets 3 out of 5 stars or B- or Good.
