Most of the movies I’ve seen lately have been pretty depressing. With these dismal economic conditions, what I really needed was a good laugh. Though many critics blasted Soul Men for its slapstick nature and familiar plot, I really wanted to see the last movie released featuring comedian Bernie Mac, who died in August -- and I’m sure glad I ignored the warnings.

The fictional R&B group, The Real Deal, featuring Marcus Hooks (John Legend), with backup singers Floyd Henderson (Mac) and Louis Hines (Samuel L. Jackson), topped the charts in the early 1970s. When Hooks left the group to begin a successful solo career, the other members were left high and dry. Floyd managed to become a successful businessman, only to be put out to pasture in his later years by his scheming nephew. Hines, on the other hand, never escaped a life of drugs and alcohol.

After Marcus suddenly dies while on tour, Floyd is contacted to perform at his funeral, which is to be held at the legendary Apollo Theater in New York City. This means he’ll have to persuade Louis to join him, though they haven’t seen each other in over twenty years. When Floyd locates Louis in his dingy Los Angeles apartment, we learn there’s still bad blood between them, due to -- you guessed it -- a woman.

When Louis finally agrees, the road trip begins. Since they’re rusty after all of these years, Floyd finds them practice gigs along the way. The two stop to perform in obscure places, including a small club in Arizona and a redneck bar in Texas. The past meets up with them in Tulsa, and more disasters hit in Memphis. As you enjoy their misadventures, though, you’ll also worry that they may not make it in time for the huge gala in New York City.

The humor in Soul Man is crude, the Viagra jokes abundant and there’s nothing original in the plot. However, the characters are what make this movie fun. Mac and Jackson play off of each other so well, and the slew of quirky supporting characters left me roaring in my seat. Maybe there’s also a bit of nostalgia at play here, since I remembered the music of my childhood in on-screen performances of “I’m Your Puppet” and brief appearances by the great Isaac Hayes, who died one day after Bernie Mac. In fact, there’s a nice tribute to Mac and Hayes during the ending credits.

I wouldn’t consider Soul Men as being even close to one of the great comedies in film history, but these men, their mishaps, and their music make this road trip worth the ride. And unlike movies like Borat, where I was bored after twenty minutes, this film kept me entertained through its entirety.

Soul Men gave me exactly what I wanted and needed -- a great laugh and an enjoyable Sunday afternoon.  I can’t think of a better send-off for Bernie Mac. He will be missed.

(Released by the Weinstein Company and rated “R” for pervasive language, and sexual content including nudity.)

Review also posted at www.nightsandweekends.com .