Comedian Bernie Mac and Punk’d star Ashton Kutcher are a comical duo in their latest film Guess Who. Released on March 25 with a PG-13 rating, this film was and will surely be able to capture audiences of all ages. To some, this movie serves as the 90s version of Sidney Portier’s 1967 movie Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. With a typical plot of companion meeting in-laws, the film has a racial twist involved, which is certainly visible by the mere skin color of Simon Green (Ashton Kutcher). Simon Green is the latest boyfriend and unexpected fiance of Theresa Jones (Zo Saldana), Mac’s daughter. Percy Jones (Bernie Mac) has no initial problem with Simon Green until he meets him and realizes he’s white. Just like the 60s film, the mother played by Judith Scott tries in a modest, sassy, and persuading way to calm the tension between the two men. Throughout the movie, Percy White and Simon Green become enemies as well as friends through a bit of humorous scenes that mimic usual behavior resulting from their uncomfortable meeting.
The movie depicts the actual reaction that interracial dating has on families of all races especially the black family. Although Kutcher and Mac tried to move away from their usual comic roles in a few serious scenes, the two were consistently funny. Don’t get me wrong. There were a few areas that were a little dull. Yet, the chemistry between the two allowed the movie to be enjoyable while addressing the seriousness and impact families have on love and race.
Not trying to exclude the rest of the cast, Zo Saldana (daughter), Judith Scott (mother), and Hal Williams all assist in making this movie a success. However, don’t let the commercial advertising fool you. If you’re looking for Friday After Next’s star Mike Epps to make you laugh, his role is so small you’ve probably seen it all on the commercial. Four paws is my rating but you should check it out for yourself.