African American Comedy Movies of 2011: A Year of Laughter and Reflection

2011 was a banner year for African American comedy movies, delivering a mix of hilarious escapades, heartwarming stories, and poignant social commentary. Audiences embraced these films, making them both critical and commercial successes. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable titles that entertained and resonated with viewers.

“Jumping the Broom” – A Wedding to Remember

“Jumping the Broom” tells the story of two families, one African American and one white, coming together for a wedding weekend. The clash of cultures and personalities creates a whirlwind of comic chaos, as both families navigate their expectations and navigate the complexities of love and acceptance. This romantic comedy, starring Angela Bassett, Paula Patton, and Laz Alonso, was lauded for its depiction of diverse families and its celebration of love in all its forms.

“Jumping the Broom” is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun, lighthearted comedy with a touch of heart.

“Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Big Happy Family” – A Family Reunion Gone Wrong

Tyler Perry’s Madea franchise continued to thrive in 2011 with “Madea’s Big Happy Family”. This film sees Madea stepping in to help a family in crisis, tackling issues of infidelity, drug addiction, and strained relationships. Madea’s trademark humor and wisdom provide a hilarious and insightful lens through which to explore these sensitive topics.

As always, Madea’s antics are sure to keep audiences entertained, while her underlying messages about family, forgiveness, and redemption resonate on a deeper level.

“The Help” – A Powerful Look at Race and Gender in the South

While not strictly a comedy, “The Help” deserves a spot on this list for its comedic moments and its profound commentary on race and gender in the American South. The film, starring Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, and Emma Stone, tells the story of a white journalist who collaborates with African American maids to expose the injustices faced by black women in the 1960s. The movie offers a powerful message of social justice, while also delivering moments of humor and heartwarming camaraderie.

“The Help” is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complex history of race relations in America and the enduring fight for equality.

“Our Family Wedding” – A Fusion of Cultures and Traditions

“Our Family Wedding” brings together two distinct families, one African American and one Hispanic, as their children prepare for their wedding. The film, starring America Ferrera, Lance Gross, and Forest Whitaker, explores the cultural differences, family dynamics, and heartwarming traditions that come together to create a unique celebration of love.

“Our Family Wedding” is a feel-good comedy that celebrates the beauty of diversity and the power of family.

“The Best Man Holiday” – A Reunion of Friends 15 Years Later

“The Best Man Holiday”, a sequel to the 1999 film “The Best Man,” reunites a group of friends 15 years after their college graduation. The friends, now in their late 30s and early 40s, face new challenges and complexities in their relationships, careers, and personal lives. The film explores themes of forgiveness, second chances, and the enduring power of friendship, all while delivering plenty of laughs along the way.

“The Best Man Holiday” is a heartwarming and funny comedy that reminds us of the importance of friends and family.

What made these movies so successful?

These films resonated with audiences because they offered more than just laughs. They tackled real-life issues, from family relationships to social injustices, with humor and sensitivity. They celebrated African American culture and traditions while highlighting the universal experiences of love, friendship, and family.

As film critic and author Michael Arceneaux puts it, “These movies gave audiences a chance to laugh, reflect, and see themselves represented on the big screen.”

Are there more African American comedy movies worth watching?

Absolutely! 2011 was just one year in a long and rich history of African American comedy films. Here are some other titles to check out:

• “Soul Plane” (2004): A hilarious comedy about a black man who starts his own airline catering to African American travelers.
• “Black Dynamite” (2009): A blaxploitation-inspired comedy that follows a former Vietnam veteran who sets out to avenge the death of his brother.
• “Think Like a Man” (2012): A romantic comedy based on Steve Harvey’s self-help book, “Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man.”
• “Ride Along” (2014): An action-comedy starring Ice Cube and Kevin Hart as a cop and his future brother-in-law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are some other great African American comedies from 2011?

A: While the films mentioned above stand out, 2011 saw several other noteworthy releases, including “What’s Your Number?” starring Anna Faris, and “A Little Bit of Heaven,” starring Kate Bosworth and Kate Hudson, which tackled themes of love, faith, and the challenges of facing mortality.

Q: Why is African American comedy important?

A: African American comedy plays a vital role in shaping our culture and promoting social justice. It allows audiences to laugh at themselves and the world around them, while simultaneously exploring important issues and challenging social norms. These films offer a unique and powerful voice that resonates with audiences across all backgrounds.

Q: What are some upcoming African American comedy movies to look forward to?

A: Keep an eye out for “Coming 2 America,” a sequel to the classic 1988 comedy “Coming to America,” and “Queen & Slim,” a romantic thriller that explores themes of race, love, and social injustice.

Posters of African American Comedy Movies from 2011

Audience Watching African American Comedy Movie

African American Actors from 2011 Comedies

If you’re looking for a good laugh or a thought-provoking experience, the African American comedy films of 2011 offer something for everyone. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be entertained!