In his Relationship Goals film review, Kevin Bourne says despite its faults, Kelly Rowland and Method Man make it an enjoyable and entertaining watch.
If you’re a fan of Black movies, one of the anticipated films is Relationship Goals starring Kelly Rowland and Clifford “Method Man” Smith. Produced by DeVon Franklin and executive produced by Kelly Rowland, Bart Lipton, and Tulsa Oklahoma pastor Michael Todd, Relationship Goals tells the story of Leah Caldwell (Rowland), a TV producer who is vying for her dream job as a morning show showrunner. The only thing standing in her way is her former flame and mortal enemy Jarrett Roy (Smith). In the end, she may find something she didn’t know she wanted even more than her dream job—love. With the themes of faith and forgiveness, the film has an underlying message that you can seemingly have everything but still not be happy. As a result, the characters are challenged to take a deeper look at life through faith.
With both Rowland and Method Man being heartthrobs for men and women alike, the film has appeal and intrigue right out the gate before the opening scene. Fortunately, the pair deliver on expectations in every way. The on-screen chemistry between Roland and Method Man is dynamic and palpable. They are believable in their portrayal of a former couple who get on each other’s last nerve. Rowland displays subtle facial expressions, mannerisms, and attention to detail as she transforms into the character. Meanwhile, the charming Method Man, who has appeared in many films and TV shows in a supporting role, shows that he is a capable leading man.
Supporting these leading performances are comedic writing that has some bright moments, as well as supporting performances from A Black Lady Sketch Show alum Robin Thede and Annie Gonzalez who brings some comedic moments to the film.
Unfortunately, that’s where the praise comes to an end. Although there’s some good comedic writing at times, there are also corny moments usually found in a Hallmark movie. Adding to the corniness is the faith factor. Faith-based movies are often plagued with corny moments with bad writing and this film is no different.
But the biggest misstep is that the film sometimes feels like a commercial for Mike Todd’s Transformation Church and his bestselling book Relationship Goals which the movie is based on. Of course, this isn’t the first time a movie has been based on a relationship book. Think Steve Harvey’s Think Like A Man, but that film didn’t feel like an attempt to sell books and attract church visitors.
Although certain moments feel a bit rushed or corny and the book and church promo is a turn off, the story and the performances and on-screen chemistry from Kelly Rowland and Method Man, and the performances of the supporting cast, still make this film an enjoyable and entertaining watch.
Kevin Bourne is SHIFTER’s Toronto-based editor and Senior Entertainment Reporter focusing on Black music and film & TV. He was named one of 340 international voters for the Golden Globe Awards and a Tomatometer-Approved Critic by Rotten Tomatoes.
Related content:
BLACK MOVIE HALL OF FAME TO BE INAUGURATED IN KANSAS CITY IN 2026