Honey

2003 Drama

Dark Angel-lead Jessica Alba stars in the title role of this film, the feature debut from music-video director Bille Woodruff. Honey is a girl from the streets who works in a record store, teaches the occasional dance class at a community center, and treks downtown every weekend to hit the clubs and try out some new moves. There, she meets a music video producer (David Moscow) who offers her a chance to be a choreographer -- but at a price she eventually learns she's unwilling to pay. Determined to pick herself back up, Honey goes back to the inner-city of her youth with plans of starting a dance school. Lil' Romeo co-stars as Honey's protege; other real-life musicians (including Missy Elliott, Tweet, Jay-Z, and Ginuwine) appear as themselves.

Director: Bille Woodruff

Starring: Jessica Alba,Mekhi Phifer, Joy Bryant, David Moscow, Lonnette McKee

Reviews

  • Honey doesn't have a shred of originality (except for the high-energy choreography), but there's something fundamentally reassuring about a movie that respects ancient formulas; it's like a landmark preservation program.

    Roger Ebert - The Chicago Sun-Times

    26 April 2013

  • A decidedly upbeat number, centered on a good-hearted character.

    Sheri Linden - The Hollywood Reporter

    26 April 2013

  • Despite some sizzle with love interest Mekhi Phifer, the alluring Alba ends up a desexualized mouthpiece.

    - Entertainment Weekly

    26 April 2013

  • Neither hot nor square, it's as simple and earnest as any after-school special and as cameo-laden as any rap video.

    Wesley Morris - The Boston Globe

    26 April 2013

  • Has the shelf life of a dented milk carton. Pop-culture movies in general age rapidly due to ever-changing slang and fashions.

    Robert K. Elder - The Chicago Tribune

    26 April 2013

Awards

  • Film: Best Breakthrough Performance

    Black Reel Awards (2004)

     
  • Choice Breakout Movie Star - Female

    Teen Choice Awards (2004)