Soul Food (1997)

Following the exploits of a large black family in Chicago who make sure to meet once a week for a nice family dinner, Soul Food (1997), is a warm and funny film about family, and food. Known for it’s strong performances from a star studded cast, the film features memorable roles from Vivica A. Fox, Jeffrey D. Sams, Vanessa L. Williams, and more.  Perhaps the most memorable performance comes from the matriarch of this family, Big Mama, played by Irma P. Hall. No, Martin Lawrence is nowhere to be seen in this one. The film is told through the eyes of her grandson Ahmad (Brandon Hammond), an observant young man who notices the things that are left unsaid, such as a loss of love in his aunt and uncle’s marriage, a family-wide apprehension for the return of a dead-beat relative from California, and many other hardships. Though there are many hardships in the film, they are used to explore the power and warmth of family. Each big meal served by Big Mama looks delicious, but not as delicious as the delectable derrière of Michael Beach. As Michael gets it on up against the wall, we see Beach’s beautiful buns. We’d love to be a beach bum on Beach’s bum.