#42

LOVE JONES

One of the most realistic depictions of a black couple I’ve seen in any film. Love Jones is raw, but classy. The movie has an era of sophistication about it. Maybe it’s because all of the characters are “Renaissance” black people, as the protagonist calls them. They’re writers, poets, photographers, artists in every sense of the word. The movie is ultimately about the ups and downs of the turbulent relationship between cocky, yet adorable Darius (played by Lorenz Tate) and the beautiful and talented Nina (played by Nia Long). They meet, they fall in love, they break up, and by the end of the film they find their way back to each other. This could’ve easily been another run of the mill romantic drama, but instead it’s given an urban sophisticated twist. The film’s soundtrack is also breathtaking; a mix of soul, r&b, and jazz. Totally captivating from beginning to end. This film takes your typical romantic drama formula and makes it refined and cultured. From the character’s slick wardrobe that captures the 1990s era beautifully, to the soulful soundtrack, to the intelligent and stylish dialogue. This is one of my favorite romantic films of all time, and certainly one of my favorite black films.