Funny Valentines
1999 American film
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Funny Valentines is a 1999 American drama film directed by Julie Dash and starring Alfre Woodard.[1] It is based on J. California Cooper's short story of the same name.[2] The film was produced by Starz! Pictures and released in selected theatres and later premiered on cable television.[3]
Ashley Tyler
Amy Schor Ferris
by J. California Cooper
| Funny Valentines | |
|---|---|
| |
| Directed by | Julie Dash |
| Screenplay by | Ron Stacker Thompson Ashley Tyler Amy Schor Ferris |
| Based on | Funny Valentines by J. California Cooper |
| Produced by | Scott White |
| Starring | Alfre Woodard |
| Cinematography | Karl Herrmann |
| Edited by | Hibah Frisina |
| Music by | Stanley Clarke |
Production companies | |
| Distributed by | Starz! Pictures |
Release date |
|
Running time | 108 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
Synopsis
Looking to escape a troubled marriage, a woman returns to her hometown, where she repairs a broken friendship with her cousin and finds true happiness.
Cast
- Alfre Woodard as Joyce May
- Loretta Devine as Dearie B.
- CCH Pounder as Ethel B.
- Peter Jay Fernandez as Danny
- Megalyn Echikunwoke as Lauren
- Kajuana Shuford as Gail
- Kiara Tucker as Young Joyce
- Saycon Sengbloh as Young Dearie B.
- Christopher Dunn as Robert Earl
- Tom Wright as Dr. Thomas Holder
- Von Coulter as Troy Watts
Production
Filming occurred in Wilmington, North Carolina.[2] This is the second movie co-starring Alfre Woodard and Loretta Devine after Down in the Delta.
Critical response
The film and performances received positive reviews from critics.[4][5] Laura Fries from Variety wrote in her review: "Director Julie Dash fosters a real sense of affection for these characters. Like her film debut, Daughters in the Dust, Dash provides a lush atmosphere, creating a visual treat with intricate flashback sequences and inviting locations."[2]
At The 2000 Black Reel Awards the film received five nominations.