Antwone Fisher

I can't think of this movie and not have the Dave Chappelle skit enter my mind. He lampoons the fact that Antwone Fisher is writing his own story, I'm sure embellishing some aspects to make himself look tougher or sympathetic. Yet...who would be in the best position to tell this story if not him?

I found the story rather engaging. I went in knowing that it starred Washington and dealt with the Navy, that was about it. Seeing Fisher's progression from a shut-off tough kid to someone who learns to love and open his heart was heartwarming. The story elements from his life hit familiar beats so while there were no real surprises here, I didn't feel like the film needed any.

The small subplot involving Washington's own troubles with his wife felt shafted in the end and wrapped up with some quick lines of dialogue. That aspect aside, the film works and showcases some good performances. Derek Luke seems to have gotten small roles here and there but never broke out to star status. He holds his own against heavyweight Washington and a surprise role by Viola Davis has a lot of heartfelt emotion when very little is said.

Good nomination, a movie I would probably never have sought out.