Director Malcolm D. Lee continued with one of the themes from the first film in this sequel unapologetically. Forgiveness was an essential element that is brought to the forefront over and over again in a way that is never tired or overused. Harper and Lance's relationship is not mended 14 years later, but even a decades worth of animosity can't stand up to Christmas cheer, faith, and sheer will. This film is most certainly a holiday film that touches the heart.
All of the characters are more dynamic this time around because they have had 14 years of growth and change, which the actors and Lee definitely tries to communicate. These are not the same exact people that audiences left on the dance floor after Lance and Mia's wedding. They have continued to work, live, laugh, love, and most importantly, develop. Different characters have new jobs, businesses, and children. These developments are announced early on so that the focus can be placed on the present because what is happening there is both entertaining and, at times, simultaneously heartbreaking.
The film is shot in a way that almost makes it seems as if the different parts of the film are chapters of a book. Instead of all of the scenes blending into one another, there is the purposeful use of fading to black between the "chapters." This adds to the not only the drama, but also the passage of time. Most of the film takes place within less than a week. A lot can happen in less than 7 days is what the audience comes to learn.
As far as the field good drama genre into which this film squarely falls, this film does not fail. There is a big emphasis on family and faith throughout the film emphasizing the "Christ" in "Christmas" and calling upon audience members to reflect on their own beliefs, trials, and tribulations. Getting older doesn't mean that everything becomes smooth sailing. Friendships take work, relationships are jobs, and sometimes people end up far from where they thought that they would be in a decade. The Best Man Holiday takes all of that and turns it into a comprehensive and enjoyable story for all to enjoy.
This film is a definite holiday must-see and holds in store both laughter and tears for its audience. Furthermore, we are given the opportunity to once again see black characters who are just living their lives and being unashamedly flawed. This rarely happens in a Hollywood film and we must support such portrayals. Go see The Best Man Holiday this weekend and bring some tissues to the show.
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