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The story begins with the grown-up Fisher, US navy soldier, who gets constantly involved in troubles over petty scuffles. He is told to meet a psychiatrist Davenport (Washington), who says Antwone has to receive at least three sessions with him before he is able to go back to the ship. Uninterested, Antwone refuses any communication with the therapist at first, but slowly realizes that there is no other way for him but to tell his own history. Then the film goes back to his painful memories in the past, which Antwone soon realizes he has to face sooner or later.

The film goes on with solid direction given by Washington, and there is no flashy "Watch-This" techiniquces used here. That is a good decision for the film is blessed much talented actors, among whom Derek Luke as Antwone is the most impressive. He realizes Fisher's fragile side of character, and even more effective when he timidly tries to talk to his love Cheryl (played by equally good Joy Bryant), asking her to have a lunch. Oh, and don't miss the humourous scene where Denzel Washington's therapist teaches Antwone how to chat with a girl.

The film is also given very authentic atmosphere of the navy or Antwone's foster parents' houses (for the first location, filmmakers would remind us of the kind permission to use the real ships by US Navy). But the horrid moments he had to go through in childhood are also very realistic, but owing to Washington's wise, tactful guiding, the film's violence is reduced to the minimum amount. But still the pain is there, so real and so scary.

Some parts are not as good as the main plot, and I thought the role of the therapist's wife is underwritten inspite of the good acting from Salli Richardson. But if you see through the whole film, and watch its heart-warming (and in a way heart-rending) conclusion, you know the value of the story this well-told. Good job done, and good film too.

And Antwone's Japanese spoken before his love is also good ... almost.

Wanted: family ties and pancakes
Based on a true story, ANTWONE FISHER is about an enlisted sailor stationed aboard one of the Navy's assault helicopter carriers based in San Diego, and whose internalized anger surfaces through repeated brawls with his shipmates. Ordered into psychiatric evaluation, Fisher must either spill his guts or face almost certain discharge. The only good thing in Fisher's life is his growing attraction to a female sailor, who works in the post exchange.

Newcomer Derek Luke is so excellent as Antwone that an Oscar nomination wouldn't surprise. Denzel Washington directs; he also acts in a rare supporting role as the Navy shrink, Dr. Jerome Davenport, who discovers early on that Fisher's rage is rooted in his family ties, or rather their absence. Antwone's father was killed two months before his birth, the latter event taking place inside a prison where his mother was incarcerated. Once released, she never claimed custody of her child, but left him to languish under cruel physical and sexual abuse in a foster home. Fisher literally dreams of a big, loving family that sits him down at the head of a bounteous table and serves him his favorite comfort food - pancakes.

The pretty Joy Bryant is sweet and charming as Petty Officer Second Class Cheryl, who supports and loves Antwone through some difficult moments. (I don't remember enlisted WAVES like this during my Navy service! Maybe I should re-up for another 4-year hitch.)

Despite the inordinate amount of hype surrounding this film, it seemed a fairly ordinary plot as I sat and watched it. We've seen this before: disturbed young man is snapped out of it by a caring head doctor and the attentions of a good woman. Stifled yawn - 4 stars. But then the last 20 or so minutes kicked in. It woke me up.

For me, the most powerful scene was Antwone's poignant and powerful declaration to Eva (Viola Davis). You'll know it when you see it, and understand why. Take a hankie. And Davis deserves an Oscar nomination for her very short and almost silent part.

And finally, there's the big question. Does Antwone get his pancakes?

The most heartfelt film of 2003
Antwone Fisher tells the real life story of the title character. A young black navy seaman faces his tough and miserable past with the help of a caring navy psychologist and then sets out to change his situation by confronting his inner struggles and finding the love of the family that he never knew.

The film is beyond brilliant. Denzel Washington, hot off of his Oscar winning performance in Training Day, scores big with Antwone Fisher. He not only stars as the psychologist, but directs this flawless drama in his first ever debut in the director's chair. Derek Luke, a name that is destined to shine in years to come, portrays Fisher with such conviction that he successfully steals the show in the scenes he's in with Denzel.

The film is very heartfelt. It will bring tears to your eyes.

A very recommended movie.

A+