“Welcome” seems narrow in appeal, charms all audiences
February 8, 2008
By Renny Logan (rlogan@hilite.org)
To the cursory glance, “Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins” at first seems to have a narrow appeal in terms of its intended audience. With an impeccable lineup including stars like Martin Lawrence, Cedric the Entertainer and Mo’Nique, it appears as if it is going to be another African-American comedy. However, the movie goes beyond its superficial limits and charms audiences of all sorts.
The introduction itself is scattered and confusing; the scenes are seemingly without connection with one another but soon comes together. It could do a better job of hooking its audience but quickly redeems itself without falter.
Roscoe, played by Lawrence, is first introduced as his “better half” Dr. R.J. Stevens, a Dr. Phil-type talk show host. As he rose to prosperity, Roscoe became estranged from his family and has been for nine years when the movie starts. With a young son from a previous marriage, he is engaged to a former “Survivor” winner who has become a fake celebrity, gluttonous for more attention. The humor of her character makes her a little frightening as well because she has yet to let go of her “Survivor” alliance mindset.
When Roscoe is called home for his parents’ 50th anniversary, he returns reluctantly. His fiancée’s only incentive for going along is the idea that the event would be good for publicity. The weekend visit is fraught with bickering, sibling rivalries and renewed tensions. While most of the teasing and nit-picking is over-toned with humor and plenty of hilarious incidents, certain tensions have a more serious undertone. For example, the unresolved issue between Roscoe and his cousin Clyde, played by Cedric the Entertainer, is the pivotal plot vehicle in the movie.
After being orphaned and coming to live with Roscoe’s family, Clyde constantly vies with Roscoe for the attention and recognition of their family, competing with one another at every chance. While most of their competitions are humorous, the movie reveals a more intense division between them, a struggle both of them must resolve.
Amidst all of this, Roscoe continues to waver back and forth between his polar identities, Dr. Stevens and Roscoe, as well as his two lives. He has sacrificed a quirky—no, downright crazy— but loving family for superficial prosperity and a bourgeoisie lifestyle.
Though at times the pot may seem transparent and the ending is nearly predictable, the movie is altogether enjoyable and charming. The ending, contrarily, turns out be less than predictable. The hilarious script, witty dialogue and charismatic cast add to the movie’s overall perfection.
The movie most assuredly demands reaction from its audience; one man in the theater loudly and enthusiastically exclaimed during one of the wilder action scenes, “Oh no, he didn’t! No, he didn’t!” Whether laughter, clapping or commentary, this movie provokes one, if not all. And its moments of heartbreak are just as demanding.
“Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins” defies its first impressions with a wide appeal and delivers in nearly all aspects. This comedy is a perfect choice for a Friday night with friends.
SUMMARY
Rating: PG-13
Starring: Cedric the Entertainer, Martin Lawrence, Mo’Nique, James Earl Jones
Release date: Feb. 8
Grade: A-
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