Undercover Brother (2002): Dir: Malcolm D. Lee / Cast: Eddie Griffin, Chris Kattan, Denise Richards, Dave Chappelle, Neil Patrick Harris: Satire that addresses the idea that many white people wish to act in the stereotypical black fashion while blacks cannot imitate the whites. This is best demonstrated when Eddie Griffin is seen in attire that is far from his usual self. Eddie Griffin plays an agent given the title name and he belongs to the B.R.O.T.H.E.R.H.O.O.D. They are fighting against a white organization known as The Man. He is searching for a brainwashing device that is interrogating black people. Funny concept reduced to Griffin's wardrobe and martial arts violence. Well directed by Malcolm D. Lee with eye catching visual elements obviously inspired by Austin Powers. Griffin seems to be having fun with the role however, it is faulted by his constant self awareness as if in on the jokes. Chris Kattan has fun as a villain struggling against influence. This renders his performance the best in the film. Denise Richards begins well and then is reduced to exploiting her sexuality. Dave Chappelle also appears in a cardboard role. Here was an idea that might have seeded had it a better screenplay but instead it becomes one big stupid charade much like Spy Hard was a few years prior. It addresses racial stereotypes while screenplay should have remained undercover. Score: 5 ½ / 10
Review of Undercover Brother
