Nappily Ever After

Nappily Ever After, a 2018 Netflix original rom-com film starring Sanaa Lathan, Ricky Whittle, and Lyriq Bent, dives deep into the themes of love, self-discovery and acceptance, all entwined eloquently with the significance of hair in the African American community. Based on Trisha R. Thomas' bestselling novel of the same name, the film is a compelling narrative depicting the lead character's journey towards emotional liberation and self-acceptance.

Sanaa Lathan portrays the lead role of Violet Jones, an incredibly successful but uptight advertising executive living in Los Angeles. Violet’s life revolves around societal and personal expectations of perfection - from her career, her love life, her appearance, to the straightness of her hair. From a very young age, Violet was taught that smooth, straight hair is equivalent to elegance and perfection, while natural, kinky hair is messy and unprofessional. This perspective subconsciously shapes much of her persona, her life choices, and even her romantic relationships.

Her boyfriend, Clint, portrayed by Ricky Whittle, is a doctor who appears to be the perfect match for Violet - well-established, good looking, and charming. However, Violet's deeply ingrained desire for a meticulously perfect life starts to unravel when she expects a marriage proposal that does not happen. Suddenly, her perfect picture falters, and she begins to question the life she has planned so carefully. This unexpected twist leads her to re-evaluate her life in an often humorous, occasionally poignant manner.

Lyriq Bent plays the charismatic and ruggedly handsome salon owner, Will Wright. Will and his young daughter, Zoe, have a chance encounter with Violet which then leads to some life-changing moments for her. Will’s philosophy of embracing natural beauty and his strong belief in the African American identity, heritage, and culture act as a catalyst in Violet’s journey towards self-discovery.

The film is much more than just a romantic comedy; it tackles the complex norms and standards of beauty that society imposes, especially on women of color. The metaphor of 'nappiness' to signify rejection of established beauty norms and acceptance of oneself is portrayed powerfully throughout the film. It boldly addresses the issue of identity and beauty standards and how they play a part in women's lives, affecting their self-esteem, personal relationships, and professional achievements.

As Violet's relationship with her hair evolves throughout the film, Sanaa Lathan delivers a nuanced performance, effortlessly transitioning Violet from a driven perfectionist to a woman on the path of self-discovery and acceptance, not only of her natural hair but of her inherent self. Violet’s journey is a relinquishment of societal stereotypes, an assertion of self-esteem, and a quest to define her personal version of happiness and love.

Ricky Whittle's on-screen charm as Clint and Lyriq Bent's raw appeal as Will complement each other, presenting alternative versions of Violet's romantic interests. While Clint represents conventionality, Will personifies the free-spirited embrace of naturalness.

Nappily Ever After is humorously relatable yet packs a social message, managing to be light-hearted without losing its core depth. The film’s director, Haifaa Al-Mansour, Saudi Arabia’s first female filmmaker, delivers a beautifully narrated story packed with powerful imagery, poignant dialogues, and memorable performances. The film admirably navigates the sensitive issue with grace and humor, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking a heart-warming story of self-discovery and acceptance with a dash of romance, humor, and self-love.