Antwone Fisher (Widescreen Edition)Denzel Washington makes his triumphant directorial debut and Derek Luke shines in his first big-screen role in “one of the most touching, heartwarming films of the year.” (Jeffrey Lyons, WNBC-TV) Inspired by the true life experiences of its title character, Antwone Fisher tells the dramatic story of a troubled sailer (Luke) who is ordered to see a naval psychiatrist (Washington) about his volatile temper. Little does he know that his first step into the doctor’s office will lead him on a remarkable emotional journey to confront his painful past–and connect with the family he never knew.Autobiographical movies rarely get more truthfully moving than Antwone Fisher. The title is also the name of this fine drama’s first-time screenwriter, a former Navy seaman who was working as a film-studio security guard when his life-inspired script was developed as Denzel Washington’s directorial debut. This Hollywood dream gets better: unbeknownst to the filmmakers, Derek Luke–a newcomer who won the title role over a throng of famous contenders–was also a friend of Fisher’s, and the whole film seems blessed by this fortunate coincidence. Washington’s sharp instincts as an actor serve him well, as both a subtle-handed director and Luke’s costar playing Jerome Davenport, a Navy psychologist assigned to assess Fisher’s chronic violent temper. Their therapy sessions prove mutually beneficial, as this touching true story addresses painful memories, broken desires, and heartfelt reunions without resorting to a contrived happy ending. Fisher’s good life is worth celebrating, and Washington brings a delicate touch to the party. –Jeff Shannon
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(out of 148 reviews)
Review by for Antwone Fisher (Widescreen Edition)
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It’s a pity this film will be overlooked while the market is being flooded with war movies and a host of other films that cheapen humanity. Not only was it refreshing to see men portrayed in non-stereotypical ways (deep, sensitive, strong and wise) but doubly wonderful that the film featured black men in these roles. I was deeply moved by the story and it will stay with me for a long time to come. It’s a story of true courage with not an ounce of exploitation or voyeurism. Stories like these have the power to heal and I’m grateful Antwone had the courage to share it with us.
Review by The Groove for Antwone Fisher (Widescreen Edition)
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To be honest, I was a little hesitant to see “Antwone Fisher,” the directorial debut by Denzel Washington. Movies directed by actors can be little more than self-serving vanity projects that merely say, “Hey! I’m an actor! And I can also direct! I’m so multitalented!” You can say the same thing about this movie, but you would be wrong. While it’s a little sentimental at times, “Antwone Fisher” is one of the most heartfelt and genuine movies of 2002. Derek Luke is the title character, a young and hotheaded seaman who gets sent to Jerome Davenport (Washington) for psychiatric evaluation following a heated brawl with another soldier. From there, the two begin a painful journey that involves discovering the roots of Fisher’s anger and, more important, the broken family that left him behind. It’s often disturbing to see the psychological abuse Fisher suffered at the hands of his elders, and his strong will and tenacity make him all the more respectable. Luke gives a decidedly low-key yet strong performance and holds his own admirably against seasoned pro (and two-time Oscar winner) Washington. But if I have a slight bone to pick with this movie, it’s that its plot has a bit of a “heard it before” feel. Several movies (“Good Will Hunting” comes to mind) have already featured a story about a troubled kid whose life gets turned around by an older mentor. Yet, “Antwone Fisher” earns its four stars thanks to its classy, non-flashy direction by Denzel and a solid performance by Luke.
Review by Wanda Robinson for Antwone Fisher (Widescreen Edition)
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I saw this movie on New Year’s Day and I found that Denzel Washington did an outstanding job in bringing this film to the big screen. The actor D. Luke was phenominal. Now about the movie, I hope that Antwone Fisher’s motivation for telling his story is not lost and that people, especially those in the foster care system, find hope. Antwone’s story proves that even the worst of circumstances and situations can be overcomed. I cried and I was overjoyed but mostly I was impressed that such a film would be told so that the world can see that there are a lot of Antwone Fishers in the foster care system that story needs to be told. I would also hope that this movie allows us as human beings to check what kind of people are raising our children especially our boys. This is definitely a must see.
Review by for Antwone Fisher (Widescreen Edition)
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this movie is definitely one of THE BEST movies of the entire year…maybe even the 21st century…it’s based on the true story of ANTWONE FISHER, who grew up in an incredibly unstable home, and had a very harsh childhood…it shows how he overcame what most would call the inevitable path toward a not-so-bright future…he ended up doing something honorable and worthy…it is a very touching movie, and i definitely had a tear or two in my eye…BRAVO!!! to Denzel Washington for his very successful directing-debut and two thumbs way up to newcomer Derek Luke who gave a surprisingly, one of a kind performance…..this is definitely one of my all time faves!!!
Review by Fafa Demasio for Antwone Fisher (Widescreen Edition)
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ANTWONE FISHER is the story of a young emotionally troubled U.S. Navy seaman. His problems lead him to Jerome Davenport, a psychiatrist who helps him realize that his troubles stem from his childhood upbringing. Get ready to shed a tear or two. The movie could thaw the coldest heart. I loved the story, which turns from something so very awful to happen to anyone into a positive ending. ANTWONE FISHER is a powerful movie, most importantly about forgiveness. Other important issues that get you thinking are child abuse, adoption, and foster care.Oscar winner, Denzel Washington does an impressive job in his directorial debut. There were many scenes which I enjoyed watching. They included the beginning (dreams of a little boy – check out the gigantic-sized pancakes!) and the ending (dreams turned into reality), which beautifully tied the story together. Another wonderful scene occurred when the doctor encouraged Antwone to search for his family to find answers to his questions about his family that abandoned him. My favorite scene happened when the young man finally confronted his mother and her reaction towards him. Priceless.All the actors represented their parts well. In addition to directorial responsibilities, Mr. Washington continues to show why he won an Oscar award and is successful in all his acting roles. He had a strong presence in this movie.Actor, Derek Luke demonstrated why he was so right for the part of Antwone Fisher. He portrayed very real and heart-tugging work.Joy Bryant who played the part of Cheryl, Antwone’s love interest, resembled a ray of sunshine on the screen. The chemistry flowed well between the romantic characters.Novella Nelson who played the part of Mrs. Tate, a despicable character, deserves special mention.Although we only see her for a few minutes, the actress who played Fisher’s mother gave an outstanding performance.Everyone should see ANTWONE FISHER!Fafa Demasio