MMT Minute Thoughts on SINGLE BLACK FEMALE

It’s been 30 years since the release of “Single White Female,” starring Bridget Fonda and Jennifer Jason Leigh, and though the film panned with critics, and many audiences, it’s still one of those that is so bad yet so entertaining!

Cut from the same premise pattern, and premiering tonight on Lifetime, is SINGLE BLACK FEMALE, directed by Shari L. Carpenter and written by Sa’Rah Jones and Tessa Evelyn Scott.

Here’s the official synopsis: Reeling from the death of her beloved father and a difficult breakup, Monica (Raven Goodwin), is ready to move forward with her life as she tries to land the new hosting job for an afternoon talk show. When she hires a new assistant, Simone (Amber Riley), the two quickly become close friends as Simone moves in next door and completely immerses herself in Monica’s life. But underneath her sweet exterior, Simone harbors a dark secret and as time goes on cracks in her façade begin to appear. Monica decides to sever ties once and for all with Simone, but Simone has other plans and is determined to take over Monica’s life for good. K. Michelle also stars.

So, I won’t say it’s bad, especially with the remarkably talented duo Raven Goodwin and Amber Riley headlining, and a supporting cast that includes the icon, Janet Hubert. But it does leave a lot to be desired, as it follows the familiar stalker/victim trope and doesn’t necessarily bring anything novel to the genre.

What was great for me? I absolutely loved watching Riley bring the crazy, and Goodwin catching on to it, in addition to the fact that two beautifully creative, curvy African-American women led the film. To say that made my thriller loving heart jump is an understatement.

And I think I need every article of clothing that Monica (Goodwin) and Simone (Riley), once she was gifted clothing from Monica, wore at work!

All-in-all, I found SINGLE BLACK FEMALE to be a satisfactory, snack-munching watch, that is more fun than thrill, with a good cast. I rate it 2.5 out of 5 on the MMTrometer.

The film premieres tonight 8pm ET on Lifetime.

You can check out a virtual press panel (I didn’t get to ask a question) below featuring Goodwin, Riley and veteran actress Janet Hubert.

Until next thought, Thomasena