Love Jones

REVIEW
Flavorful, romantic and funny, Love Jones is a real sleeper of a comedy. A very sexy photographer (Long) falls for the persistent charms of a budding novelist/poet (Tate), despite having given up on love after a failed marriage engagement. The film follows their relationship through all the usual obstacles -- career, jealousy, pride, insecurity, etc. While the story is certainly tried and true, Love Jones has a funky, distinctive feel; for every aspect of the film that is clichéd or simplistic, there are many that are truthful and engaging. All the performances are good, with the two leads particularly appealing. Despite its minor flaws -- and an oddly unsatisfying ending -- Love Jones is a winner.