Love Jones is a poetic film that brings the cool back into romance, and manages to appeal to everyone. Darius Lovehall (Larenz Tate) is an aspiring poet and writer who is completely infatuated with aspiring photographer Nina Mosley (Nia Long). Both are young and talented renaissance souls dealing with issues from their past relationships that define their struggles in love. Hesitant at first, Nina finally agrees to go out with Darius and finds that they have an undeniable chemistry. As their relationship progresses, Darius and Nina find that their feelings for each other are much deeper than just “kicking it.” A miscommunication mixed with both of their prideful personalities drives them apart, but they both struggle with the feeling that each might just be “the one” for them. As things get from bad to worse, Nina has to make some tough decisions about her future with Darius as well as her career.

This film is an unbelievably hip romantic comedy that oozes with urban neo-soul that engages the audience and makes you feel a part of that niche community. The poetry, music, and artistic images drive the film and give it a cool ambiance that intertwines beautifully with the empowered attitudes of both of the main characters. Tate and Long give two strong performances and mix very well together as love interests. The supporting cast does an amicable job at filling the gaps, even if a somewhat subdued Bill Bellamy can still be a little over the top at times. The writing is strong and manages to be subtle with it’s comedy, making the film seem funny in a real life way instead of a silly movie way. The soundtrack is a strength of the film, and a must have for any fan of this genre.

Overall, Love Jones is strong film that makes for a great date movie. Part of it’s charm is that it’s very different from traditional romantic comedies. The film has unbelievable style that appeals to the young and old alike, and the underlying theme of finding that “one” makes it easy for anyone to relate to. Love Jones is great as a first date movie because of it’s focus on young love, and is still entertaining for existing couples because of it’s strong overall performance.