Norma's Lament (1997) User Reviews

Sensuality as seen with the eyes of a woman, and lot more

[robdal · 9/10 · 27 May 2000]

Excellent movie: the overall atmosphere is unique, imaginative and irreplaceable starting with the `introduction'. It talks about sensuality, seduction and all those (much too powerful) forces that, against our balance and intelligence, would drive us in an unknown territory, where we have no map. It has the energy and temper that only a wounded young tiger can have. When the tiger would be fully recovered we'll be amazed by the art of Christina Booth.

Every Girl's Lament

[sunshinebright1111 · 10/10 · 17 August 2006]

I saw this movie recently (and quite by accident), and I have been searching for The Talented Ms. Booth ever since. Because this movie was made in 1997 and I didn't see it until 2006, I made an effort to transport myself back to the time of production. That done, I realized how provocative, insightful, and risky this movie actually is. And thank Jehovah, Oprah, and The Baby Jesus for that.

Without giving too much away, this movie tells the story of Norma, a level-headed African American girl in New York City. Norma meets boy. Falls in love with boy. Learns some disturbing truths about boy. And is then forced to make some decisions. Sounds simple enough. Except that Norma's decisions are drastic and beautifully symbolic. And they help to shatter this completely ridiculous idea that Black Women are to stand by Black Men at all costs, even when that cost is their own dignity, self-respect, integrity, and happiness.

I love Norma for what she did and for the myths she shattered in the process. I love Norma's friends for being strong enough to support her through her decision. And I love Christina Booth for telling some truths that I so needed to hear when I was 18.

I expect to see great things from Ms. Booth in the future. And you should too.

It's like a too-glossy music video.

[maudelarryj · 1/10 · 15 August 2000]

The movie is very touching and funny. In some respects it is even dead-on. But it's a bit too commercial and glossy; ultimately it's a very shallow, simplistic drama -- it would have been more effective as a comedy.