Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Duane Martin | ... | Derrick | |
Kelly Rowland | ... | Jhnelle | |
DeRay Davis | ... | E.J. | |
Mel B | ... | Sandie (as Melanie Brown) | |
Patrick Fischler | ... | Irwin | |
Christian Copelin | ... | Kenny | |
Shemar Moore | ... | Trent | |
Denise Dowse | ... | Derrick's Mom | |
Glynn Turman | ... | Derrick's Dad | |
Kyla Pratt | ... | Diona | |
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Michael Chinyamurindi | ... | Nail (as Michael Hinyamurindi) |
Curtis Armstrong | ... | LaJean | |
Romy Rosemont | ... | Vicki | |
Julie Mintz | ... | Carrie | |
Tony Lee | ... | Waiter |
In The Seat Filler, Derrick (Martin) is a struggling law student who takes a job as an awards show seatfiller to make ends meet. One day, he is seated next to the beautiful pop superstar Jnelle (Rowland), who mistakes him for a well-known industry executive. With an instant chemistry, the unlikely pair begin to date. But Derrick must scale creative heights to keep up the charade. When the couple begins to fall for each other, Derrick must chose between his conscience and the love of his life. Written by MomentumX
Admittedly, Kelly Rowland playing a superstar who falls for the common guy is a bit well, predictable, but otherwise, this is one of the few films that made me smile and giggle.
Rowland is beautiful and her supporting cast are just right, even Melanie Brown's small role is wonderfully complimentary. Deray is hilarious, as is Mr Gorgeous Shemar Moore in his small role as the ex boyfriend.
It's nice to watch a film with a predominantly black cast that doesn't rely on stereotypes or "white man can't jump" kind of jokes. It's just a cute love story. There may not be any "dramatic arcs" or much in depth "character development"... but seriously, how much are you expecting out of a unassuming romcom? Not every single movie has to be a Scorsese or a Mendes.
There are quite a few funny lines, the acting is more than bearable and the directing pretty great. For me it's like the black Notting Hill, so I can't understand all the criticism people can find with this film.
My opinion: definitely a film you can enjoy with your friends on a girls night in. I can't see anything to complain about, it does the job it sets out to do, entertain.