A few weeks ago I enjoyed the movie No Good Deed. I was delighted to add this film to my short list of those that don’t typecast black bodies. This movie was a suspense, not a “black suspense” but a gut checking suspense. After admiring Taraji Henson and Idris Elba awesome performance I approved No Good Deed distribution to homes of Americans and those overseas. I wondered about that individual that has never encountered a person of color and thought, here is a movie that you can watch.

I find myself being drawn to movies that keep history alive, in addition to informing people of the racism and prejudice that still exist. However, sometimes I just need to enjoy a good movie and it is refreshing to see people that look like me providing that breath of fresh air.

Taraji Henson has come a long way since Baby Boy. Her character, Terri is a loving mother, wife, friend and a resilient woman. When her handsome and tailor- made business suit wearing husband enters the room, their family dynamics seemed normal despite his lack of affection. When there was obvious tension she didn’t attempt to emasculate him but tried to analyze the situation and request time alone when he returned from his trip in addition to an on the lips departing kiss. The dialogue was not filled with curses or demeaning language but concern and compassion. Nor was his tall and broad shouldered body successful because he was an athlete or a performer.

Terri may have seemed to be a soft spoken, naively kind housewife but this law degree holding women held no punches….literally.

Idris Elba character Colin was a typical lunatic in a suspense movie. He killed when we didn’t expect him too, was cunning and charismatic. The film didn’t have to delve into his background to represent a misguided man child coming from an impoverished community and lacking a father figure. Colin’s was an accused serial killer of women and obvious psycho path that could be tempted to kill at any moment. His role as an antagonist was not depreciated by Ebonics nor did his acts of violence stem from gang or drugs.

There is always a struggle to be overcome or a story that needs to be told. Sometimes it’s enjoyable to watch a movie that is written for entertainment. If you are looking for black bodies to provide comic relief, reassurance of why impoverished communities are helpless, see black males killing each other, deprived people, distant mothers, or a portrayal of “rachid” character to earn a movie its “keeping it real” status then you might want to skip No Good Deed.