tao902
Set in 1950s Alabama around the time of the birth of rock 'n' roll, focusing on a music venue and its manager. The backdrop is the racist America South.At the heart of the story lies the proprietor, Tyrone, of the Honeydripper Lounge. He is in debt and needs to raise money fast. He plans to put on a gig with a brilliant black guitarist. Behind his battle to run a successful club lies the conflict between religion and rock 'n' roll, God and the devil, with a convenient compromise by the end of the film. Predictable at times with some obvious set pieces but a fun film with great music.
vnikolaidis-1
John Sayles and Maggie Renzi have offered their audiences so many entertaining 'slice of life' movies but this is the best one yet. Slow and lazy times in the South don't necessarily mean the living is easy . . . Tyrone has to make some heavy-duty decisions if he wants to stay in business . . . decisions that could make or break not only his business but his reputation as well. f you have your own business you may feel more anxiety as Tyrone tries to bring in customers. And the music is not to be missed. Blues and Keb'Mo' and rockin'roll music are an integral part of the narrative. The love story between two of the younger generation (don't want to give away a spoiler) is very sweet. High quality ensemble cast.The relationships between the characters play true to real life.
Charles E Thomas III
While a lot of people may not know Gary Clark Jr. out of Austin,Texas, this sort of helps to get his name out there. He is a "awesome" guitarist. Still in his early 20's and self taught. If you ever get the chance to see him perform, don't pass it up. He is a true blues man, and a "VERY" good one. It would be nice to see Gary showcased in a good blues movie.While the actors in the movie are well known and most I thought were very good. The movie itself was just OK for me. I would have liked the movie to center more about the blues and Gary as a talent.Keb Mo was very good as the blind guitarist seeming to show up everywhere abound town. Now, I am still very glad to see any movie that shows some blues and the struggles and problems that goes with the blues. I know there are a lot of people that like to listen to blues. This venue of music is a true American art that should be more recognized and showcased.
Nat Williams
I got "Honeydripper" based on the sleeve information, which made it seem like it might be interesting in the same way that the excellent Samuel L. Jackson vehicle "Black Snake Moan" was. The movie did keep my attention somewhat, but I was disappointed with its slow pace and meandering nature. Plus, the director could have done a better job of depicting basic elements of the plot. For instance, on the "big night" that is supposed to be making money for the club, there appears to be about 12 to 15 people in the nightclub. I don't think he could have made enough money to pay expenses on that. Anyway, I guess disappointment is my basic reaction. If you're interested in blues in the integrated Deep South, check out the aforementioned "Black Snake Moan." It is a superior movie.