The Best Man

R 1999 Comedy · Two hours feels justified with this ensemble, though some subplots could be tighter.
Solid crowd-pleaser
6.7/10
IMDb
71%
Fresh
61
61/100
Metacritic
🎬
6.6/10
TMDB

The brief

Malcolm D. Lee's directorial debut feels like hanging out with the coolest friend group you wish you had, anchored by Taye Diggs doing his best charming-but-messy romantic lead work. The film moves at a breezy pace between genuine laughs and relationship drama, though it occasionally stumbles when trying to balance too many character arcs across its two-hour runtime. Morris Chestnut and Nia Long bring real chemistry to their roles, while the ensemble cast makes even the more predictable moments feel lived-in and authentic. Perfect for fans of "Love Jones" or anyone who wants a smart romantic comedy that actually respects its characters' friendships as much as their love lives.

witty ensemble romantic entanglements friendship loyalty urban sophistication nostalgic warmth relationship comedy

The verdict

If you love ensemble romantic comedies that prioritize authentic friendships and witty banter over formulaic romance, this is a genuinely charming crowd-pleaser with stellar chemistry between its leads. If you prefer tighter pacing and streamlined storytelling, the two-hour runtime and juggling of multiple character arcs might test your patience.

Watch with

  • 👫 Perfect for a couples' movie night with great banter
  • 👥 Ideal for friend groups who love relationship drama
  • ⚠️ Skip with kids due to mature relationship themes

Heads up

  • Sexual content and adult relationship discussions (moderate)
  • Strong language throughout (frequent)
  • Infidelity and relationship betrayal themes (moderate)

Credits

Director
Malcolm D. Lee
Cast
Taye Diggs, Morris Chestnut, Nia Long, Harold Perrineau, Terrence Howard, Sanaa Lathan, Regina Hall
Official synopsis

After writing a soon-to-be bestselling novel, writer and committed bachelor Harper attempts to hide the fact

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