Issues (2005) Poster

(2005)

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7/10
A funny feel good story from a males' point of view
Services-3814 July 2007
I would have easily given this movie an 8, but the introduction was a bit lengthy and more than necessary use of cuss words. The film could handedly hold its own without some of its opening profanity. It was worth while entertainment. This movie does contain a logical storyline, with sophistication. It is not have a senseless plot, nor is it slapstick.

We need more "story-driven" comedy in the film industry. I am certain that Van Elder has enough historical material in him, being a native of Compton to develop more Black genre films that mainstream audiences would appreciate. This young man's work needs to be supported. He can take it to another level.
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The main "Issue" is bad writing
BlackFilm11 March 2005
Looking through Van Elders films and their ratings, I can only believe that he's asks family and friends to get on the site and rate everything a 10. These ratings are not deserved. I've seen the films.

First, let me say that I root for Van Elder to do well. He is obviously dedicated to making films. I was at a screening for this film, and he, with the help of his crew, took what they had available and persevered through the sometimes arduous process of making a film. The shame of it all is that they went through all of this hard work, as films require, and ended up with an amateurish, barely watchable, mess.

To say that the writing was bad would be like saying that Jeffrey Dahmer was troubled or that Al Qaeda is mischievous. There were all of three funny lines in this "comedy" and each one was stolen from other films. Elders should have realized that his audience might have seen films such as 'Fear of a Black Hat' and would already be familiar with the comedy of Chris Rock. It's deplorable to out and out steal comedic lines without giving them credit. Beyond that, the story was as predictable as the sun rising, though not nearly as entertaining. There was no real story thread, and the only character arc was for a snotty secondary character who no one cared about. Then, like many amateur writers, Elders tried to tie everything up in a neat bow by forcing an ending. Of course by that point, I just wanted the credits to roll.

The only positive thing I have to say about the film is that the performances of the two male leads were decent. Laz Alonso must truly be a funny comedic actor, because even with the witless lines he was given, his personality grabbed a couple of laughs that were not at all a result of the writing.

Van Elder is not a writer. If he is a filmmaker, I hope he recognizes his shortcomings and searches for a good script to make. He seemed quite proud of this film at the screening, but someone needs to tell him the truth. He will never be a successful filmmaker starting with scripts like this one.
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1/10
One of the worst movies of the decade
axb21 September 2008
Let me see- Bad acting, predictable plot, poor direction; what else could be bad? This would be a good effort if the average age of the participants was 12. Mediocre. Let's see what this film is about. It is about two guys living in a house with a woman who is just a roommate. We can guess, of course, that the woman will end up pairing with one of the men before the end. The woman has a friend who is uppity for no apparent reason- sorry correction- she has a boyfriend who is a high power agent in Hollywood. Correction- he is just a slime ball who preys on young females desperate to get into movie business. He is so crude that he wouldn't last in any business for more than 5 seconds, but for her girlfriend he is God. And one of the house-mates has a girlfriend who becomes a religious fanatic and a lesbian. Who thinks up such crap anyway? Actors mostly stand around stiffly to deliver their lines. Just because the actors are young and attractive does not make this relevant or interesting. This straight to DVD venture should have gone straight to nowhere.
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3/10
Issues two thumbs down
tedthumb15 September 2008
I saw Issues on Starz network. Issues started with a chance to be a decent light hearted comedy. Then it unraveled. The story centers around a clean cut accountant that wants to fall in love that lives with his skirt chasing cousin. Another housemate takes off leaving them in need of a housemate to help cover rent. When a new housemate arrives it throws everything off in their worlds.

After 10 minutes I can label this movie the love child of a hybrid of The Odd Couple and Three's Company TV shows. Every retread situation a movie could use was used. It was not funny or candid. Laz Alonso playing the skirt chaser cousin was good. Save yourself watching this movie. Like police say near a crime scene. Nothing to see here go home.
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10/10
REAL LIFE, HILARIOUS, A DEFINITE SUCCESS!
soromaco11 December 2004
I loved this movie. It was refreshing to not see the same cookie cutter version of a day in the life of the African American professional. It was refreshing to see real people, interact, with a not so perfect outcome in every frame. I laughed so hard I cried at times. As a matter of fact I hated that it was over so soon. I can honestly say, that this was the first time in a long time that I genuinely enjoyed a comedy this much. It was a true and hilarious depiction of African Americans and our day to day lives and dating experiences. Thank you for keeping it real. When the movie hits the big screen, DON'T CHANGE A SINGLE THING!

Sincerely,

Lola Thompson
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1/10
'Not your typical love story'? Yes, it was!
messagefrommontie15 May 2011
I've enjoyed previous movies that Laz Alonso was in, like "Stomp the Yard," "Fast & Furious," "This Christmas" and "Jumping the Broom" so I figured, "Hey, I've never heard of this film. He's in really good movies. Let me check it out." Cons: This movie was just plain bad. Here's why: 1) I don't know Laz Alonso personally so I could possibly be wrong on this, but his character was too hard for me to believe. He just doesn't look like the type who constantly calls women hos and bs, and he sounded incredibly odd saying the n-word NONSTOP through the film. Maybe he does it on his own time (I'm still trying to wrap my head around him setting his timer for dysfunctional reality shows, which he said on "The Wendy Williams Show"), but in this film it wasn't convincing. Remember Gary Anthony Sturgis playing a thug in "Daddy's Little Girls"? Yeah, it was THAT awkward.

2) The shameless pat-on-the-back about the "hot new director" of a movie called "Issues" that one of the main female characters got a role in--who does that? What director would plug his OWN film in HIS movie? That's a very amateur move.

3) The dialogue was so weird. The stuck-up woman with the shady boyfriend was having a conversation with him (who plays Todd Bridges) at a table, and the entire conversation sounded like she was reading it from a piece of paper. And who in 2005 (when the film released) calls a woman a "jezebel"? A lot of the dialogue was like that. Another example: "Are you going to her to relieve your sexual frustration?" That just sounds wordy. I wish the screenwriter would've just walked around to settings where characters like the ones he was writing about were and just listened to them talk. Listen to the way they talk, and then rewrite the dialogue so it sounds like it's in 2005. The politics and social situations in the film were clearly up-to-date, but the dialogue for the females was out of date through the whole movie. The guys' dialogue was much better.

4) I don't care how much a woman is proud of her femininity. I have never met one woman in my entire life (friends, relatives, hell, even co-workers) who left douches, vaginal wipes or pantiliners on the sink. NOBODY does that unless it's an accident, and all three at once? Under the sink or in a medicine cabinet would've been a much more believable spot for Laz Alonso's character to find that stuff. And for her to do it with two guys in the house and she's a new roommate? Even less likely! 5) Why in the world did we not acknowledge that the main female characters look alike? If they're not twins, they've got to be cousins or something. Instead of avoiding the clear physical similarities, why not just say they're related? That's like having a film with Tia and Tamera and saying they just met each other on the street! 6) The car scene between Royce and his girlfriend made me nauseous. The camera moved back and forth between the two like a clock ticking. At the end of the movie, you can only see side profiles of the characters. Get a tripod and buy multiple cameras. Another amateur movie. I know this is an indie film, but an indie film doesn't have to scream "INDIE FILM." 7) The oral sex scene with the guys reenacting how it goes down. I'm guessing it was supposed to be funny, but it came off so lame. Plus it looked out of place considering there weren't more scenes like that.

8) Why was every single female in the film stiff? Not one of them could act, not even ONE. I was really disappointed because I know they could've found at least SOME good actresses for this film. I don't know what the budget was like, but even the oral sex scene had more feeling than all of the woman put together! Pros: There were actually a couple of funny moments. 1) Light-skinned Eric (played by Nema Williams, who I think is a funny comedian) was cool. He amuses me because he doesn't try so hard--not in this film and not in this comedy. He cracked me up with the "Alicia Lost Her Keys" joke. 2) The conversations about men versus women (although a little too raw at times) was interesting to listen to. It will make some women cringe, but I actually prefer the guys sound like they're keeping it barbershop real than acting like they don't talk about women like that behind our backs. Some do, some don't. I thought that was believable. 3) I did like the fact that one of their problems was paying bills and the guys had decent jobs. No stereotypical drug dealers, lazy I-don't-want-to-work guys, and nobody robbing any place. Thank you! To sum it up, I tried to give the movie a shot. I stopped and started it three times and only watched it to the end because I didn't want to give up. I wanted to like the film because I saw where it was going. I think it was better written and better executed, it could've been a really good one. Todd Bridges was pretty good in this film, and Laz Alonso is a good actor but I think because the acting of his surrounding cast was so bad, it made him look bad, too.
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8/10
Laz Alonso and Ben Watkins
danceability8 October 2009
Warning: Spoilers
'Issues' stars Laz Alonso and Ben Watkins, playing two room mates fumbling to find love, get laid, and pay their bills. Their luck improves when an old roommate is replaced with a female room mate who helps the two guys see the light of day about men, women and what matters in relationships, while striving for her own thespian aspirations. The real lesson she teaches them is how to be a friend to a woman and make space for them in their lives, rather than merely her pants. After all, the two protagonist real fear is not knowing or finding love in a world where love is rare. Some might be bored with the idea of a movie that doesn't portray black men killing each other, dealing drugs, or destroying the local community, but this one is a lot of fun. For an independent film the cinematography is more than decent. There are more than few clunkers of films out there, but this one is a pleasant 87 minutes. The final scene is a fine one where the guys' father comes to the financial rescue and pays the mortgage on the dwelling they are sharing, perhaps alleviating the stress they have in meeting one of their expenses. Does this help from daddy make it possible to concentrate on learning to love and appreciate women as friends and companions? You'll have to get this DVD to find out.
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9/10
Entertaining!
alstovall30 March 2005
"Issues" was entertaining and gave an interesting look into the male perspective. It was 'in your face" reality mixed with humor. There were many funny moments as well as some "ah-ha" moments. The content of the film was extremely thought-provoking, which could result in lively discussions about relationships between men and women. The film was paced well so you never felt as if you were waiting for it to end. The characters were "real" and easy to relate to. I loved Royce and Damien! The plot was a bit predictable, however, it was nice to see it wrapped up on a positive note. And of course, it's always great to see African-Americans portrayed positively in film. I look forward to seeing future films from this up and coming writer/director.
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8/10
very well done!
breezinthrutime29 May 2005
I thought this film was done very well. I enjoyed watching the development of the characters and experiencing with them all of some real life issues. I found myself laughing a lot throughout the film. I would definitely watch it again. Some of the language in the beginning was a bit strong but I enjoyed the characters so much it didn't seem to matter. I found myself sitting straight up at times not being able to keep my eyes off of the screen. I feel that this film will be very successful and I can tell that a lot of hard work was put into it. Kudos to writer Van Elder and all of the actors. It was great seeing Todd Bridges in his role of Carson...outstanding work. Also Ben Watkins and Laz Alonzo were just awesome, i didn't want to blink my eyes.. Ohh..and that sassy sexy Mrs. Jones, Lisa De Witt, I couldn't wait to see what she was going to do next. I just can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this film.
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9/10
Outstanding!
terri_baskin22 November 2004
This is a must see comedy! Take it or leave it, it's reality. This is a movie that will keep your interest from beginning to end. Attention Females, if you're looking for an entertaining movie told from the male perspective, here's your chance to be a fly on the wall. The men in this movie are top notch. Excellent! Damien, Royce, and Will play the perfect bachelors for any woman that needs a little eye candy in their life. Also, the role of Carmen is definitely an eye-popper and Mrs. Jones puts her cooking to good use! This is not your stereo-typical African American comedy. Ladies, come with an open mind and get ready to laugh. I can't wait to see future projects from Director Van Elder!
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great movie
andres-5827 December 2004
i went to go see this movie w/my girl and we both loved it. it was very real. the movie was super entertaining and really funny, we were laughing the whole time. i can't believe this movie was made in such a short amount of time w/such a limited budget. great work! van elder definitely proved he has what it takes to make it big time, the movie showed how much passion & hard work van elder has put towards this project, and what he is capable of making under such tight conditions. much respect. i look forward to future works and wish you the best of luck in all of your upcoming projects. i recommend everyone who has the chance to take a look @ this film and the director too.
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10/10
Issues - Check it out!
luvthearts20036 December 2004
I had the opportunity to screen this film in Washington D.C. I must say that the movie was hilarious and I enjoyed it immensely! I believe the masses will enjoy Issues for its stomach tingling humor and real commentary/issues that happen between human beings. Everyone (or at least the majority) in the audience seemed to have a great time. The Q&A session revealed a man that's passionate about his product and that's important. A big congrats goes out to Van Elder for putting Issues together! Also, great job on casting as well. If you haven't seen this film, you really should or YOU have issues. : ) I wish continued success to this up and coming filmmaker. I'll be looking forward to the next Van Elder production.
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10/10
Great Movie!
kyndalls25 December 2004
I really enjoyed this film. My friends and I laughed through the whole movie. There was never a stale moment. This was a refreshing change from the typical plots,characters and point of view. The dialogue between the characters was witty and sharp. There was a interesting twist in the movie that I was not expecting. The relationship between the cousins had me dying laughing. It was nice to see Todd Bridges in a current movie, portraying a different type of character that we're not used to. The other actors were good as well and look forward to seeing them in other films. I enjoy going to movies and would watch this again and again as well as recommend to other people. I saw the movie at the Los Angeles premiere. It would be nice if there was another showing out here because there were a lot of people who did not get in. From what I was told by other viewers , this was the largest crowd they had ever had for one of these premieres. I for one would come back with more of my friends. Can't wait to see the next Van Elder Film!
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"Issues"
carswin1 February 2005
I had the opportunity to see this film in Los Angeles. I was extremely entertained. There was never a dull moment throughout the movie. The dialog was very funny and real. I felt like I knew the characters personally and conversations among the characters were like those I would have with my own friends. This film was a refreshing change from what I am used to. I usually see movies that are very "commercial" with known actors and a known director. I was not disappointed. I would recommend this film to my friends any family. This film was different from the "Cliche" films that are out now. I was told that Van Elder has done some short films and I would like to see those as well. I am now a fan of Van Elder and I am definitely looking to see other Van Elder films in the future. Congratulations to Van Elder on a job well done. I am very impressed with his work. seeing other Van Elder films.
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10/10
I loved i't great movie
bobbydavis238 January 2005
I really enjoyed this film i laughed through the whole thing because some of the characters remind me of friends of my own. the relationship between the cousins funny, great dialog sharp and witty the actors were right on time they made it real, and when a movie can pull you in like that it's very very entertaining O AND YES having Todd Brigdes in the film was a nice addition i highly recommend anyone to take some friends to go and check this movie out when ever it's played again. much success to Van Elder I look forward to seeing future work by this talented young filmmaker

Definitely a good job Van Elder
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