Nappily Ever After

Nappily Ever After is a 2018 American romantic comedy-drama film directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh. The movie is an adaptation of the 2000 novel of the same name by Carla Hankin, also known as "Nappily Ever After: Sexiest Hair You'll Ever Have, or Why Black Women Love Good Hair" in some countries. The story revolves around Violet Jones, an accomplished and confident television news producer played by Sanaa Lathan. On the surface, Violet appears to have it all together. She is a successful and respected television producer in her late 40s with a beautiful family, a loving husband, and two adorable daughters. However, beneath her polished exterior, Violet struggles with the societal pressures and expectations that dictate how black women are supposed to look and behave. Her hair, in particular, has become a symbol of her identity and a source of great anxiety. Violet's life is turned upside down when she experiences an accident at the hair salon after visiting an incompetent stylist who causes severe hair loss. This freak incident sets off a chain reaction, and Violet begins to question everything she thought she knew about herself. Feeling like she's at a crossroads, Violet is forced to reevaluate her priorities, her marriage, her job, and most importantly, her sense of self. As Violet navigates her personal crisis, she meets the character of Charlie (played by Ricky Whittle), a charming, free-spirited barber who becomes her unlikely confidant. Charlie is a man of great character with an unassuming demeanor and a passion for his craft. Unlike the traditional barbers Violet has grown accustomed to, Charlie doesn't judge her or try to fit her into a specific mold; he listens to her and offers sage advice that encourages Violet to break free from the societal pressures she's long endured. Under Charlie's guidance, Violet starts to explore a more authentic side of herself. Embracing her new short and natural locks, Violet finds freedom from the constant scrutiny associated with having long, styled hair. As she embarks on this new chapter of her life, Violet starts to rediscover the things that brought her joy and a sense of fulfillment before societal expectations and the pressures of her demanding job took over. As Violet grows closer to Charlie, they share conversations about identity, family, and self-discovery. Violet's relationship with her husband, Tippy (played by Ernie Hudson), also undergoes significant changes. While initially disapproving of Violet's decision to cut her hair, Tippy eventually comes to terms with and even supports her new look and her journey towards self-acceptance. The movie explores the intricate interplay between identity and societal expectations. It portrays the struggles faced by black women specifically, and the ways in which they internalize their experiences and present themselves to the world. This theme is particularly relevant in the context of hair, which often serves as a proxy for women's overall appearance and beauty. As Violet's story unfolds, the movie takes a nuanced look at her complex relationship with her family. Violet's interactions with her daughters provide poignant moments of insight into the ways in which women both support and pressure one another. In the end, Violet emerges from her journey with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of her identity. The cinematography in Nappily Ever After captures the warm, inviting essence of the barber shop, where Charlie and Violet's conversations take place. The film's score subtly blends jazz and R&B elements, further enhancing the intimate and nostalgic feel of the barber shop setting. In conclusion, Nappily Ever After is a heartwarming and thought-provoking film about self-discovery and the pursuit of happiness. The movie celebrates the complexities of black women's experiences, and the ways in which societal expectations can both unite and divide women. With Sanaa Lathan and Ricky Whittle delivering memorable performances, Nappily Ever After tells a compelling and deeply personal story that encourages viewers to reexamine their own sense of identity and purpose.