Movie Review: ‘Tennessee’

Published by Clay Cane on Friday, June 5, 2009 at 12:00 am.

tennesseeSummary: Two brothers travel from New Mexico to Tennessee to find their abusive father. After one of them learns they have been diagnosed with Leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant, their father might be the only one who could save them. On the way to Tennessee they meet a waitress and aspiring singer (Mariah Carey).

Review: The reviews are going to be harsh on “Tennessee.” The wannabe tear-jerker had the potential to be great, but misses the punch and vigor that a “heavy” movie like this needs: cancer, child abuse, domestic violence, etc. You have to hit the viewer with some excellent writing to not throw them in an inescapable depression.

Every so often “Tennessee” has some great moments.  The film, directed by Aaron Woodley, has moments where it is almost award-worthy then quickly falls apart in expected sappiness that leaves you huffing and puffing. Still, even the reasons why “Tennessee” is not an incredible film are respectable. It is not doused in stereotypes, the cast is diverse and the intention is good. For some reason, the dynamic failed and the conflicts were weak for a film that was probably a better book than movie.

So the big question is—How was Mariah? Surprisingly, Mrs. Cannon was the light in an otherwise morbid and boring film. She had flair, swagger and a convincing Texas accent. Unfortunately, “Glitter,” which was nearly eight years ago, still rings in the minds of many when it comes to Carey’s acting skills. However, the legendary pop diva plays it smart. Since “Glitter,” she has picked wise roles—usually in independent movies where she is not the lead. Whether or not people want to admit it, Carey has natural talent – she doesn’t have the Madonna acting curse. Unfortunately, her bad movie was her first. But, after “Precious,” Mariah will be fully redeemed as an actress.

That said, there is not enough Mariah.  It is a plot that cannot sustain itself.  Yes, there are moments where it does pull together — but “Tennessee” would be better on Lifetime than on the big screen.

“Tennessee” is in theaters today.

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Comments

incingCat Said on

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C'zwe` Said on

Mariah’s talent is incredible.Haters won’t stop hatin her if she’s goin to take the acting industry by storm as she is doin in the music industry.Congrats!



Renee Said on

I’m going to check this movie out, I think Mariah Carey is going to do a great job.



Magnificent Said on

Congratulations to the cast and crew of Tennessee. Mariah I knew you could act. Can’t wait to see you in Precious this November.



T Said on

Thank you, Mr. Cane. THAT was a more than decent piece of writing. Excellent review. I can’t wait to see Tennesee.



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Kanyade Said on

This movie is on my Netflix.

Mariah has the chops. I could barely recognize her in that “Precious” preview. Way to go Mariah and Monique! They better get some kind of Oscar nods. BETTER.



MS.DEEKAY AKA DAE123 Said on

I AINT NO HATER THO BUT I JUSS CANT STAND MARIAH. SHE IS SOOOO ANOYIN, SHE CANT EVEN GIVE A GREAT PROFORMANCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!ALL SHE DO IS JUSS STAND THERE ON STAGE LOOKIN ALL STIFF AND TRYNA BE ALL CUTE AND PRETTY. I WOULDNT GO TO SEE THAT MOVIE EVEN IF YALL PAID ME, AND I DONT CARE BOUT WAT ANY OF YALL GOT TO SAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Ebonae Said on

i really wanna see this movie, is it on youtube?



Anna Said on

IF YOU CANN’T STAND HER,WHY ARE YOU HERE TALKING ABOUT HER. GET YOURS AND STOP HATING. SHE IS DOING GREAT AND SO ARE HER MOVIES. SAY ANY BS YOU LIKE,THEY HAVE HEARD IT ALL,WHAT MORE CAN YOU SAY.



Legends Honored at The Apollo’s 75th Anniversary | Said on

[...] knocked over security and the barricades! Jamie looked dapper as usual, signed autographs.  Unlike Mariah Carey, (who arrived sans Nick) who snapped at an innocent bystander for stepping on her dress before [...]



brandi Said on

i can’t wait to see this movie. i had been hearing about it since its opening at tribeca last year. mariah’s acting looks good in this as she does in precious.

to ms dee kay: now say that again, this time in English.