THE PLOT THUS FAR
Cedric the Entertainer stars in The Soul Man, an original sitcom from Suzanne Martin, the creator of Hot In Cleveland. Series co-creator Cedric plays Boyce ’The Voice’ Ballentine, a chart-topping Las Vegas singer who moves back to St. Louis to preach in his father’s church. Can this superstar-turned-minister go from singing soul to saving souls? Can his family adjust to their new lifestyle? They’re about to find out!
The Soul Man also stars Niecy Nash (Reno 911) as Boyce’s wife, John Beasley (Everwood) as his father, Wesley Jonathan (What I Like About You) as his younger brother, and Jazz Raycole (My Wife and Kids) as his daughter. The character of Reverend Boyce originated in an episode of Hot in Cleveland in which Cedric guest-starred.
WHAT WE THOUGHT
“The Soul Man” focuses on a Las Vegas singer who comes back to preach for his father’s church. The typical sitcom tropes are there and Cedric the Entertainer makes the most of them. If anything, it feels like a throwback to a simpler time where these kinds of shows greeted you every Friday night. Whether it be “Amen” or other show featuring Sherman Helmsley, you knew what you were getting with these programs. Plus, I respect anyone that keeps Niecy Nash on the air.
I’ve mentioned it before, but I like what Cedric the Entertainer does when he performs live. While the show is a “Hot in Cleveland” spin-off, I admire the almost self referencing nature that TV Land has produced. I mean, I guess there was a point when Nick at Nite would eventually devour its own tail, but this is some heavy duty stuff. If you’re looking for a clean sitcom that you can watch with the family, then this is it.
The DVD comes with interviews and music video as the special features. The A/V Quality is on par with standard definition releases. The transfer has a plastic style sheen. But, the Dolby track does its work. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase to the curious.
RELEASE DATE: 07/08/2014