Boomerang
★★★ 1/2
There's no doubt that Boomerang oozes with sex. It's pretty much the forefront of all the characters minds. The second thing on their mind is work, although it's a far second. The fact that these are the only two things that the characters care about is both the strength and hindrance to this film. On one hand, the banter and the dialogue amongst the group of friends and co-workers are genuine and hilarious, but it also provides a shallowness to all of those involved. Boomerang isn't so much concerned with justification of the character arcs, but more so about the dynamics between actors when they are in the room with one another. Which thankfully, is more than enough, because the all-star cast delivers.
Eddie Murphy is charming and hilarious throughout, although I'm not whole heartedly convinced that his character, Marcus Graham, is a changed man by the end. Robin Givens and Halle Berry light up the screen in completely different ways and Graham's buddies, David Alan Grier and Martin Lawrence, provide wonderful commentary and punchlines to the romantic angst that unravels through this film. Along with the other supporting characters that knock it out of the park with the little screen time that they have (hello, Grace Jones), Boomerang ultimately is a lot of fun. It provides many memorable scenes and sight gags and I appreciated how unapologetic it is.
It's not so much concerned with making sense from a plot perspective, but it gives depth to the characters and I appreciated that it is willing to show both strong male and female characters that never have to apologize for who they are. Reginald Hudlin's film wears its intentions on its sleeves, and you will either bask in its early '90s glory or be turned off by its frankness.
