Love Come Down

Love Come Down

Running time: N/A

When it comes to urban films, celebrated director Clement Virgo's Love Come Down is a profound detour from the usual I-can't-get-out-of-the-hood, low-budget fodder force-fed to audiences from both independent and studio directors. Virgo's independent endeavor is hip, raw, sexy and deceptively spiritual. Two brothers, Neville and Matt--one black, one white--are nearly polar opposites in appearance and personality but share one vital common thread--the same mother, who is White. Matt (Martin Cummins) is always brooding and angry, believing he can slugfest his ghosts into submission by pursuing the violent career of a boxer. Neville (Larenz Tate from Dead Presidents and Love Jones) is the lover and recovering addict, embracing levity to supplant personal demons yet struggling to make it as a standup comic. Though childhood love for each other is unquestioned, they fight against destructive obsessions and battle to keep their biological foundation from falling apart. Love Come Down delves into a sector of society where souls are often forgotten and salvation appears to flee. Filled with solid performances (including a mesmerizing one from popular singer Deborah Cox) and nice plot surprises, it provides a snapshot of life complexities within interracial families and their reach for balance. It is a film that educates and inspires through characters who journey from despair and near self-annihilation to illumination. Human fragility is exposed in this film and no one escapes its truth, but love saves all - even in the 'hood. Preceded by: Simple: A writer with writer's block has his schedule diverted by his girlfriend, accusing him of two-timing. Director: Michael Buffong, United Kingdom, 10min. Reviewed by Jamie Williams, Ed.D.
A writer with writer's block has his schedule diverted by his girlfriend, accusing him of two-timing.
When it comes to urban films, celebrated director Clement Virgo's Love Come Down is a profound detour from the usual I-can't-get-out-of-the-hood, low-budget fodder force-fed to audiences from both…