Funny Valentines

Funny Valentines is a 1999 American drama film directed by Julie Dash and starring Alfre Woodard.^[1] It is based on J. California Cooper's short story of the same name.^[2] The film was produced by Starz! Pictures and released in selected theatres and later premiered on cable television.^[3]

Funny Valentines
Directed by	Julie Dash
Screenplay by	Ron Stacker Thompson Ashley Tyler Amy Schor Ferris
Based on	Funny Valentines by J. California Cooper
Produced by	Scott White
Starring	Alfre Woodard
Cinematography	Karl Herrmann
Edited by	Hibah Frisina
Music by	Stanley Clarke
Production companies	BET Movies Starz! Pictures Chelsey Avenue Productions
Distributed by	Starz! Pictures
Release date	February 14, 1999 (1999-02-14)
Running time	108 minutes
Country	United States
Language	English

Synopsis

Looking to escape a troubled marriage, a woman returns to her hometown, where she repairs a broken friendship with her cousin and finds true happiness.

Cast

• Alfre Woodard as Joyce May
• Loretta Devine as Dearie B.
• CCH Pounder as Ethel B.
• Peter Jay Fernandez as Danny
• Megalyn Echikunwoke as Lauren
• Kajuana Shuford as Gail
• Kiara Tucker as Young Joyce
• Saycon Sengbloh as Young Dearie B.
• Christopher Dunn as Robert Earl
• Tom Wright as Dr. Thomas Holder
• Von Coulter as Troy Watts

Production

Filming occurred in Wilmington, North Carolina.^[2] This is the second movie co-starring Alfre Woodard and Loretta Devine after Down in the Delta.

Critical response

The film and performances received positive reviews from critics. Laura Fries from the Variety magazine wrote in her review: "Director Julie Dash fosters a real sense of affection for these characters.^[4][5] Like her film debut, “Daughters in the Dust,” Dash provides a lush atmosphere, creating a visual treat with intricate flashback sequences and inviting locations."^[2]

At The 2000 Black Reel Awards the film received five nominations.