‘The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat’ Review: A Star Trio Carries This Slightly Tempered Version of Inseparable Friends Novel

As a woman who has weathered the highs and lows of deep friendships spanning decades, I can wholeheartedly say that “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” resonates with me on a profound level. This film captures the essence of female camaraderie – the fierce loyalty, the shared secrets, and the unwavering support in times of need – all wrapped up in a heartwarming story that leaves you feeling uplifted.

In “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat,” a particularly exciting scene is hard to ruin, given its prominence in the film’s promotional material. Director Tina Mabry seems more focused on amplifying the spirited loyalty she infused into her adaptation of Edward Kelsey Moore’s 2013 novel. This novel revolves around lifelong friends named Odette, Clarice, and Barbara Jean, who adopted the name of the renowned Motown group. Mabry’s uplifting film adaptation is scheduled for release on Hulu on August 23.

Odette (Kyanna Simone), who was born fearless, readies herself to confront the overly-friendly stepfather of friend Barbara Jean (Tati Gabrielle). Barbara Jean is both shy and attractive. They’ve just lost Odette’s mother, and she and her best friend Clarice (Abigail Achiri) arrive with a box of fried chicken smeared with grease. When the tall teenager decides to fight in just her bra and slip, saying to Clarice, “I don’t want my dress soiled with blood,” it’s a heartening moment. Later, Odette takes another action that transforms Barbara Jean’s life and strengthens their bond: Generous Earl (Tony Winters), who owns the local restaurant, along with his wife Thelma, persuade Barbara Jean to move in with them.

The actors chosen to portray the young trio are captivating, but those who take on the roles of the adult companions truly shine as a rich source of talent for Mabry, directing merely her second movie. (Having made a strong and autobiographical first film with “Mississippi Damned” in 2009, she’s since been involved in television and streaming productions.)

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor plays Odette, the pivotal character in the film. She initiates the story by contemplating fate and destiny under a tree, looking unwell. Indeed, she is not well. Sanaa Lathan embodies the dual nature of beauty as a strength and a weakness for Barbara Jean. As Clarice, the gifted piano teacher in town, Uzo Aduba subtly communicates that her character perceives her husband Richmond’s infidelities clearly and is beginning to realize that she has endured too much compromise over the years. The three have stood by each other through their shared hardships and rare moments of joy.

The actors playing their respective spouses deliver delicate performances as well. Vonnie Curtsis-Hall skillfully conveys the love, bravery, and compassion Lester has for Barbara Jean. Given his limited screen time, it’s crucial that he does; Lester understands he was not Barbara Jean’s initial preference, but rises to the challenge. As Richmond, Russell Hornsby infuses the former football star with a charisma that both invites criticism and provides an opportunity for redemption. In essence, his portrayal makes us feel uneasy in Clarice’s shoes, as he is indeed a cad, yet Hornsby adds complexity to the character. Mekhi Phifer exudes strength and comfort as James, Odette’s long-time, devoted partner. When Odette learns she’s ill, his reaction speaks volumes with quiet determination.

Indeed, there will be instances of unfaithfulness and loyalty, births and deaths. For a touch of humor, Earl’s secondary and less significant wife, Minnie (portrayed by Sherry Richards), offers her pretentious prophecies in a spiritual manner. Kudos to Winters and Curtis-Hall for leaving such endearing impressions that when their characters exit the story, they are truly missed.

In this adaptation penned by Mabry and Cee Marcellus, who’s also known as “The Woman King” director Gina Prince-Bythewood, watching the trio of Odette, Clarice, and Barbara Jean offers an enjoyable experience despite their intricate issues. However, it’s important to note that some decisions made in the film might disappoint fans of the original book.

As a movie enthusiast, I can understand why some readers might feel disappointed about changes or omissions in adaptations. However, if you’re not familiar with the novel’s witty references to ghostly visitations and regular church attendance, you might think it leans more towards a Nicholas Sparks-style romance. The film seems to lean heavily on melodrama and period-piece aesthetics, which further enhances this impression.

The love tale unfolds between Barbara Jean, who’s been hurt, and Ray “Chick” Carlson, also known by Clarice as “the reigning king of handsome white men.” Earl hired Chick as a busboy, which could deepen their emotions. However, Ryan Paynter discovers a hidden gentleness in Chick that persists into his grown-up years. Later on, Julian McMahon reappears in town after 30 years as a professor, and he too shows kindness once more.

A film that encourages viewers to empathize with every character in a love triangle is admirable, but did the inclusion of an interracial romance come at the expense of something deeper within the Supremes? By poking fun at Minnie’s unconventional tastes and omitting the novel’s ghostly elements (as well as their church-going to a lesser extent), something profound and perhaps essential to these friends and their community was downplayed.

Nevertheless, there are instances where a subtle charm lingers. After all, deep friendships can be considered one of life’s most captivating creations. Indeed, Odette, Clarice, and Barbara Jean demonstrate the essence of cherishing this bond.

2024-08-08 05:46

‘The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat’ Review: A Star Trio Carries This Slightly Tempered Version of Inseparable Friends Novel

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