DECK
'God's Waiting List' is latest release targeted for 'post hip-hop' culture
Two adult siblings – Solomon and Teresa Corbin – share more than just a common parent: Both believe in The American Dream and plan on opening businesses of their own.
But what happens when the secret and illegal behavior of one jeopardizes the life, faith and livelihood of the other?
That's the question writer Nian Aster and director Duane Adler explore in the gritty new film "God's Waiting List" that was released on DVD this past May.
Teresa, a devout Christian and lesbian played by Nicki Micheaux, has always dreamed of owning her own floral shop. Whereas she's saving money to realize her goal, Solomon – played by Roger Guenveur Smith – is impatient to achieve his. So he borrows money from a local mobster to open Sol's Sonic Lounge, a record store.
However, Sol is not the only one who's impatient. When Sol is unable to repay his loan, it is Teresa who pays the price in a crippling car accident caused by the mobster's goons.
Unaware of the truth behind the accident, Teresa puts her faith in God and totally devotes her energies towards one day walking again – dumping her bisexual girlfriend, Rachel (Nian Aster), in the process. Sol, though, is filled with guilt and still in debt to the mob. His life slowly spirals out of control.
"Good things will happen if you just believe," Teresa says, but her faith is tested when she learns Sol's secret. Will it destroy her? Or will her prayers finally be answered?
At its core, "God's Waiting List" is a fascinating look at how people are connected to one another, such as by blood, lust, love or faith – and how those bonds can be strengthened or strained by the choices we make in life. In particular, it digs deeply into the tools people use to survive when tragedy strikes – some of which are positive, and some of which aren't. And it gives hope that when things are at their darkest, even a sliver of light can shine.
What also makes the film intriguing is its handling of faith and homosexuality in an urban environment – topics that often don't mix well. Although in "God's Waiting List," the Christians often serve as the film's only source of humor, Teresa's faith is genuine and strong. And while she's probably the sanest Christian in her congregation, even she is capable of doubt and losing her faith.
What isn't in doubt is the movie's target audience. Its distributor, Codeblack Entertainment, was established in 2005 to "produce and acquire the most compelling content for the sophisticated urban generation living in a post 'hip-hop' urban culture" – a demographic that has no voice, the business believes.
It does now. And "God's Waiting List" is an entertaining start!
http://www.godswaitinglist.com
