Movies

Unremarkable but ambitious story from writer-director Ice Cube. A young woman recalls her emotionally wrenching experiences while working at a raunchy black strip club, specifically the burden of dealing with sleazy customers, reprehensible rivals, and wild parties on the side, all while maintaining her dignity as she strived for a better life. Intriguing story is accompanied by a talented cast, powerful moments, and some fine performances, but too often resorts to familiar plot twists and lame stereotypes. Not a bad piece of work for first-time director Cube, but would've benefited from more creativity. **

This is basically a black, very superior version of "Striptease" and "Showgirls." It's not as sexy as "Showgirls," but what I really looked for was a better plot. This had one. LisaRaye gave an impressive debut performance as a college student trying to make ends meet. Bernie Mac can make the most dramatic piece of dialogue into stand-up comedy with his extraordinary vocal strength and stamina. I was very impressed with Ice Cube, his writing-directing debut, because, honestly, I didn't know he was capable. I like how he staged the scenes and built suspense. The great thing about it is that there is a considerable amount of violence, but no one is killed. For once, a black film where everyone lives. Another thing, this movie has the best, most vicious catfight I have ever seen.

I had pretty low expectations for "The Players Club". It was directed by Ice Cube, who I never knew had been behind the camera, and it's the only movie he ever made, suggesting that it wasn't particularly successful.My expectations were well and truly surpassed. "The Players Club" does get off to a rough start. It has a generally amateurish feel to the shots and edits, or perhaps just a low budget feel. Also the pacing seems strange - quite a lot seems to happen very quickly, and I felt the need to come up for breath.But I persevered. There's just so much to like about "The Players Club". It's got a great ensemble cast, many entertaining characters, and quite a few unexpected twists and turns.I say check it out.