Hav Plenty

Hav Plenty is a 1997 romantic comedy and indie film that gracefully integrates humor, romance, and a thought-provoking exploration of the intricacies of social class, personal ambition, and romantic relationships. Directed, written, and starring a then-unknown Christopher Scott Cherot, the movie showcases an appealing blend of quirkiness and realism, reflecting a passionate filmmaker coming to terms with his own distinctive voice and vision. Chenoa Maxwell and Hill Harper also deliver riveting performances, adding depth to this fascinating story of love, ambition, and self-discovery.

The plot revolves around Lee Plenty (Christopher Scott Cherot), an aspiring yet financially struggling author who leads a somewhat nomadic existence. He existentially drifts from one place to another, finding shelter on friends' couches while clutching tightly to his unsold manuscript, his dreams of publishing it still burning ardently. Lee's character is introduced as an intellectual with an indomitable spirit and a unique outlook on life. These factors play a significant part in his decisions throughout the film, adding layers to his character that come to life brilliantly under director Cherot's command.

Cherot’s film sparkles when it introduces Chenoa Maxwell as Havilland Savage, an old and wealthy friend who invites Lee to her parent's posh New Year's Eve Party. Despite her engagement to a successful music producer Michael Simmons (Hill Harper), Havilland - or Hav - has a complex past with Lee, engendering a romantic tension that persists throughout the film. Yet, Hav's affluent lifestyle starkly contrasts with Lee's bohemian existence, thus forming the crux of their relationship and the challenges it entails. Havilland's character offers a potent exploration of a woman torn between longstanding societal expectations and her own personal desires and ambitions. The performances of both Maxwell and Harper are commendably authentic, adding much depth and credibility to their respective roles.

Hav Plenty offers a nuanced narrative that grapples with themes of wealth disparity, the complexity of romantic relationships, and the struggle to realize one's creative dreams. The film's comedic underlining weaves these themes together quite seamlessly, putting its viewers in stitches one moment, then thrusting them into deep contemplation the next. The movie is filled with snappy dialogues, wit, and a unique brand of humor that gives it a distinctive edge, separating it from the usual fare of romantic comedies.

On a production level, Hav Plenty stands out as a low-budget film that possesses an undeniable charm and a high level of creativity. Cherot's directing style is fresh and innovative, and he does a fantastic job keeping the film engaging throughout its running time. Beyond the expert direction, the movie is backed by an impressive soundtrack, with contributions from prominent artists such as Babyface, who also served as an executive producer. This complemented different scenes exceptionally well and further enhanced the storytelling experience for viewers.

Despite its status as an independent feature with a shoestring budget, Hav Plenty attracted significant attention, even scoring a distribution deal from Miramax. It was screen legend Robert Townsend who eventually presented the film to the masses. Interestingly enough, Cherot's journey in the film mirrors Lee's journey in the plot, thus adding a unique meta layer to the film which viewers might find intriguing.

In Hav Plenty, Cherot has woven an immersive narrative that is as engaging as it is relatable. Layered with humor and unexpected emotional depth, it stands up as a film that is more than just an indie rom-com. It offers a heartwarming, genuine, and riveting viewing experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Whether you're a fan of indie cinema, romantic comedies, or simply enjoy heartfelt storytelling, Hav Plenty brings plenty to the table for all sorts of viewers. This film serves as a remarkable testament to the fact that a great story, along with a talented cast and crew, can transcend far beyond the limitations of budgetary constraints. Hav Plenty is a hidden gem amongst independent cinema that deserves appreciation for its genuine storytelling and memorable performances.