Deb's Ultimate Gifts

An unapologetic, gender-reversed spin on the hugely successful Barbershop movies, this predictable but energetic comedy provides a showcase for the irrepressible {|Queen Latifah|}. The erstwhile Dana Owens, whose fine work in character roles includes her Academy Award-nominated turn as Mama Morton in Chicago, portrays single mom and hairstylist Gina Norris, a favorite of customers at the posh salon where she works. Tired of taking verbal abuse from her sarcastic boss, Jorge (a hilariously fey {|Kevin Bacon|}), Gina quits to open her own shop in a less fancy part of town. Accompanied by sweet but ditzy Lynn ({|Alicia Silverstone|}) and aided by sexy electrician Joe ({|Djimon Hounsou|}), she gives the new venture everything she’s got -- including money she can ill afford to lose. Although the Barbershop films were ensemble efforts that gave ample footage to their supporting players, Beauty Shop rests primarily on Latifah’s shoulders, although director {|Bille Woodruff|} (Honey) surrounds her with such talented and well-known performers as Bacon, Silverstone, {|Andie MacDowell|}, {|Mena Suvari|}, and {|Della Reese|}. She manages the burden quite easily, though, breezing through the comedic scenes and handling the dramatic ones with conviction. There are plenty of laughs to be had -- and some romance, too -- so settle into a seat under the dryer and enjoy this agreeable little movie.