“Back on the Strip” attempts to add humor and drama to the world of male strippers, but falls short in delivering the right moves. With an ensemble cast that includes Wesley Snipes, Tiffany Haddish, Kevin Hart, J.B. Smoove, Faizon Love, Gary Owen, Bill Bellamy, and more, the film aims to entertain, but ultimately struggles to rise above its weak plot and tiresome romantic subplot.
The story revolves around Merlin (Spence Moore II), a young man with dreams of becoming a magician. Supported by his single mother Verna (Tiffany Haddish), Merlin’s life takes a comedic turn when his talents are unveiled in unexpected situations. However, the film gets weighed down by a romantic subplot that interrupts the movie’s momentum.
Despite the presence of formidable comedic talents, “Back on the Strip” fails to fully engage. The film attempts to capitalize on the popularity of male stripper narratives but falls short of delivering a satisfying experience. The interactions between the characters, including those played by Snipes, Hart, and others, do bring some laughs, but the film’s weak screenplay hinders its overall impact.
As the reunion of a Black male stripper troupe takes center stage, the film veers between humor and drama without finding a solid balance. The comedic moments are overshadowed by the romantic entanglements, leading to a lack of cohesion in the storytelling.
“Back on the Strip” struggles to sustain its energy and fails to capitalize on its potential for a compelling male stripper comedy. Despite the efforts of its talented cast, the film falters due to its disjointed plot and underdeveloped characters.
Watch the film for a glimpse of its ribald interactions and comedic elements, but be prepared for a lackluster portrayal of the male stripper world.
Written by:
Dana Sterling-Editor
