Nappily Ever After

A woman's self-discovery journey through hair transformation

Watch on Netflix
About Nappily Ever After

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 38m

Cast
Sanaa Lathan, Ricky Whittle, Lynn Whitfield, Lyriq Bent, Ernie Hudson

About Nappily Ever After

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About

Nappily Ever After is a comedy film released in 2018. It is based on the novel of the same name written by Trisha R. Thomas. The film explores the story of Violet Jones, a successful advertising executive who seemingly has the perfect life - a great job, a handsome boyfriend, and perfectly straightened hair. However, when her relationship falls apart and she has an unexpected hair disaster, Violet's life takes a dramatic turn. Determined to redefine her own idea of beauty and embrace her natural hair, Violet sets out on a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance.

The film delves into themes of identity, self-love, and societal pressure on beauty standards. It portrays Violet's transformation and empowerment as she learns to embrace her natural hair, ultimately finding her own happiness and breaking free from societal expectations.

Making / Production

Nappily Ever After was directed by Haifaa Al-Mansour and written by Adam Brooks and Cee Marcellus. The film was produced by Tracey Bing, Jared LeBoff, and Marc Platt. It was released on Netflix on September 21, 2018.

Actors

  • Sanaa Lathan as Violet Jones - The main character who undergoes a transformation and learns to embrace her natural hair and redefine her own idea of beauty.
  • Ricky Whittle as Clint - Violet's boyfriend who plays a significant role in her journey of self-discovery.
  • Lynn Whitfield as Paulette Jones - Violet's mother who holds certain expectations for her daughter's appearance and success.
  • Ernie Hudson as Richard Jones - Violet's father who supports her in her journey to self-acceptance.
  • Camille Guaty as Wendy - Violet's best friend and coworker, who helps her through the challenges she faces.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The film is based on the novel of the same name by Trisha R. Thomas, which is part of a series called "Nappily Ever After".
  • Nappily Ever After received positive reviews from critics for its empowering message, performances, and its portrayal of natural hair.
  • Sanaa Lathan, the lead actress, shaved her head for the film's pivotal scene where Violet cuts off her straightened hair.
  • The film sparked conversations about beauty standards and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.

Awards

Nappily Ever After did not receive any major awards.

Quotes

  • "Hair is just the tip of the iceberg." - Violet Jones
  • "Sometimes you gotta hit rock bottom before you can find your way back to the top." - Clint
  • "Sometimes you need to step outside, clear your head and remind yourself of who you are. And where you wanna be. And sometimes you have to venture outside your world in order to find yourself." - Violet Jones

Music

The film features various songs throughout the story, enhancing the emotional journey of the characters.

Soundtrack

  • "In this Sky" by Dani Ivory
  • "Gold" by Britney Holmes
  • "Good Girl Down" by Ashley Jackson
  • "You Only You" by T'Pau
  • "Late Have I Loved Thee" by Continental Singers