Ruth & Boaz – Netflix – 1 hour and 33 minutes
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Ruth and Breana are a singing duo called 404, and their manager, Syrus, believes they will take the music world by storm. This performance is significant because Jermaine Dupri is in attendance. However, it holds a special place in Ruth’s heart. Her boyfriend, Marlon, brought his parents, Eli and Naomi. They impress Jermaine and Eli, but Naomi doesn’t think much of them. After receiving Naomi’s cold shoulder, Ruth contemplates her musical future. Later, they perform in the studio, and Ruth expresses her frustrations to Breana. Breana tries to convince Ruth to stay, but Ruth says no. Ruth meets Syrus in the parking lot and tells him she’s out. Syrus refuses to let her go because he invested $250,000 and a car in her career. She offers to give him $3000, the car, and make payments until she pays him back. He says no and threatens her.
Ruth scrolls through her phone and calls Marlon. Naomi answers with devastating news. Marlon and Eli were the victims of a carjacking. Someone shot both of them. Ruth runs to be by Naomi’s side. The doctor tells them that neither man made it. Naomi and Ruth break down in tears. Ruth attends the double funeral and overhears Naomi’s accountant deliver another blow. Eli leveraged everything to keep their law practice afloat, and the house is in foreclosure. The bank will put the house and cars up for auction. Eli left Naomi’s home in Tennessee in her name so the bank can’t touch it. Ruth sees Syrus amongst the grieving and pulls him aside. He informs her that he is responsible for the carjacking. He didn’t mean for Eli and Marlon to die, but he needed Ruth to get the message: return or he will harm others she loves. Ruth returns home and begs God for guidance. She leaves 1 month’s rent for Breana with a note, discovers where Naomi is, and joins her on the bus. Naomi demands that Ruth get off, but Ruth won’t budge.
Ruth and Naomi return to the dilapidated home. Ruth makes some insignificant fixes while Naomi removes the cross from the wall. Ruth goes around town to find a job, and she sees day laborers. Lena explains that they harvest grapes, but doesn’t think Ruth is strong enough for the job. Ruth joins them and travels to Azra Vineyard. Ruth works through both breaks and lunch. The owner, Bo Azra, also known as Boaz, notices her. He introduces himself, but Ruth keeps her distance from the handsome man.
Later, Lena takes Ruth to a bar and signs Ruth up for karaoke. She doesn’t see Boaz sitting in the VIP section. Ruth sings, and it speaks to Boaz’s soul. He desires to make this beautiful, mysterious, and soulful woman his. However, he summarizes that she’s afraid, but he doesn’t know what’s scaring her. He vows to be her protector, and she will need it. Syrus saw a viral video of her performance, and he’s coming after her, Naomi, and anyone standing in his way.
Inspired by the book of Ruth, this retelling offers a beautiful story about faith, fear, and love. The script gives viewers enough time to understand and sympathize with Ruth and Naomi. Naomi lost her first son and then her remaining family in one painful moment. Losing her business, home, and cars adds another wrinkle of heartbreak that she was unprepared for. She feels like a failure, returning to her hometown. However, she learns to trust, and they welcome her with open arms. Ruth’s story parallels Naomi’s. Ruth walks through life with caution and heartbreak. She worries about Naomi, uncovering the truth, and is careful around Boaz. When he offers her things, she fears he will use them to control her like Syrus. So, she rejects his gifts and his love. Both women face insurmountable loss. This film offers an entertaining story and doesn’t alienate non-Christian audiences. However, the plot skirts Hallmark territory with an upcoming festival and competition. This storyline isn’t necessary to the plot and slows down the pace. Nevertheless, it allows the lead actress to remind everyone of her singing talents. Sans the Hallmark storyline, this movie tells a heart-clinching story for the family with no sexual innuendos or interactions. It gives a biblical retelling for everyone.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I am done with you – Naomi
My dad used to say, ‘make and take by any means necessary’ – Syrus
Where you go, I go – Ruth
Look, I’m trying to get paid now – Breana
Of course, you did – Boaz
Scripture says, ‘Heaven rejoices when one comes home’ – Charles
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Categories: movie, Netflix, phylicia rashad, review, Ruth & Boaz, Serayah, Tyler Lepley, VOD
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