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Best Kevin Rodney Sullivan Movies
11th Nov 2025
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Kevin Rodney Sullivan is a director who has helmed some truly memorable and enjoyable films, often blending humor and heart with diverse casts and relatable characters. From laugh-out-loud comedies to touching romantic dramas, his work showcases a knack for creating engaging stories that resonate with a wide audience. His movies leave a lasting impact with their catchy dialogue and memorable characters. Below, you'll find our ranking of the best Kevin Rodney Sullivan movies. However, we want to hear from *you*! Use the drag-and-drop feature to reorder the list according to your own personal preferences and create *your* ultimate ranking. Let us know what you think the definitive order should be!
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#3.
How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)
3/5
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"How Stella Got Her Groove Back" (1998) tells the story of Stella, a successful investment banker who's lost touch with the joys of life amidst her demanding career. Her best friend Delilah whisks her away to Jamaica for a much-needed vacation, promising relaxation and a break from routine. However, the trip evolves into a journey of self-discovery as Stella encounters the charming and significantly younger Winston. What begins as a flirtatious encounter blossoms into a passionate romance, forcing Stella to confront societal expectations, personal insecurities, and ultimately, what truly makes her happy. This trip becomes an exhilarating voyage of self-discovery for Stella as she learns to open her heart and find love - even if it's with a man 20 years her junior. "How Stella Got Her Groove Back" earns its place on a list of "Best Kevin Rodney Sullivan Movies" not only for its feel-good narrative and engaging performances by Angela Bassett and Taye Diggs, but also for showcasing Sullivan's skill in directing romantic comedies with a strong female lead. Sullivan masterfully balances the lighthearted humor and picturesque Jamaican setting with deeper themes of self-acceptance, societal pressures on women, and the courage to embrace unconventional choices. The film’s success lies in its relatability, offering a refreshing perspective on love and happiness beyond traditional norms, all delivered with Sullivan's signature stylish direction and pacing.
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Guess Who (2005)
#11.0"Guess Who (2005)" cleverly inverts the classic "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" premise, presenting a light-hearted comedic clash of cultures and generations. Percy Jones (Bernie Mac), a fiercely protective and somewhat old-fashioned father, struggles to accept his daughter Theresa's (Zoe Saldana) fiancé, Simon Green (Ashton Kutcher). Simon's eagerness to impress and the inevitable mishaps that ensue as he tries to navigate Percy's rigid expectations create a whirlwind of awkward situations and laugh-out-loud moments. The film ultimately explores themes of acceptance, prejudice, and the evolving definition of family in a modern society, all while maintaining a feel-good tone. "Guess Who" rightfully earns its place among Kevin Rodney Sullivan's best works because it showcases his talent for blending humor with social commentary. While the film relies on comedic set-pieces, Sullivan subtly addresses issues of race and preconceived notions without becoming preachy. He adeptly directs the ensemble cast, allowing Bernie Mac to shine with his signature comedic timing while also highlighting the genuine chemistry between Kutcher and Saldana. The film demonstrates Sullivan's ability to craft entertaining and accessible movies that still manage to touch upon relevant social themes, making it a standout within his filmography.
Barbershop 2: Back in Business (2004)
#22.0"Barbershop 2: Back in Business" revisits the familiar and beloved atmosphere of Calvin's Barbershop, picking up where the original left off. Calvin, now more seasoned but facing new challenges, finds himself in a battle to preserve his father's legacy and the spirit of his community. This time, the threat comes not only from a changing neighborhood, but also from ambitious stylist Gina, who operates the beauty shop next door and is eager to expand her own business. As urban developers set their sights on replacing local establishments with corporate chains, Calvin must rally his crew and his community to defend the tradition, camaraderie, and unfiltered conversations that make his barbershop a vital part of Chicago's South Side. "Barbershop 2" earns its place among Kevin Rodney Sullivan's best films due to its adept blend of humor, social commentary, and heartfelt storytelling, hallmarks of his directing style. Sullivan masterfully balances the film's comedic elements with relevant themes of gentrification, community preservation, and the importance of black-owned businesses. This film showcases his skill in directing ensemble casts and creating believable, engaging characters, all while delivering a message that resonates with audiences. It is a worthy addition to his filmography, highlighting his ability to create entertaining and thought-provoking cinema.
How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)
#33.0"How Stella Got Her Groove Back" (1998) tells the story of Stella, a successful investment banker who's lost touch with the joys of life amidst her demanding career. Her best friend Delilah whisks her away to Jamaica for a much-needed vacation, promising relaxation and a break from routine. However, the trip evolves into a journey of self-discovery as Stella encounters the charming and significantly younger Winston. What begins as a flirtatious encounter blossoms into a passionate romance, forcing Stella to confront societal expectations, personal insecurities, and ultimately, what truly makes her happy. This trip becomes an exhilarating voyage of self-discovery for Stella as she learns to open her heart and find love - even if it's with a man 20 years her junior. "How Stella Got Her Groove Back" earns its place on a list of "Best Kevin Rodney Sullivan Movies" not only for its feel-good narrative and engaging performances by Angela Bassett and Taye Diggs, but also for showcasing Sullivan's skill in directing romantic comedies with a strong female lead. Sullivan masterfully balances the lighthearted humor and picturesque Jamaican setting with deeper themes of self-acceptance, societal pressures on women, and the courage to embrace unconventional choices. The film’s success lies in its relatability, offering a refreshing perspective on love and happiness beyond traditional norms, all delivered with Sullivan's signature stylish direction and pacing.
Takedowns
#44.0While not as widely recognized as some of his other works, "Takedowns" earns its place on the list of Best Kevin Rodney Sullivan Movies by showcasing his signature directing style in a more intimate and action-packed setting. The film's tight pacing, characteristic of Sullivan's work, keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as they follow the protagonist's journey through a dangerous world. Beyond the thrilling fight sequences, "Takedowns" explores themes of loyalty and redemption, adding depth to the narrative and demonstrating Sullivan's ability to craft compelling characters even within the confines of a genre film. Moreover, "Takedowns" is a prime example of Sullivan's talent for casting and eliciting strong performances. The chemistry between the lead actors elevates the film beyond a simple action flick, and Sullivan's masterful direction allows each actor to shine. The film's cinematography, though more grounded than some of his visually flamboyant comedies, still reflects Sullivan's eye for detail and his ability to create a distinct atmosphere. Ultimately, "Takedowns" proves that Sullivan's directorial prowess extends beyond romantic comedies and showcases his versatility as a filmmaker.
Rise
#55.0Kevin Rodney Sullivan's filmography is marked by a distinct ability to balance humor, romance, and social commentary within engaging narratives. "Rise," while perhaps lesser-known than some of his other works, exemplifies this characteristic, earning its place among his best. The film tackles complex themes of ambition, class differences, and the pressures of success, all while maintaining a lightheartedness that makes it accessible and entertaining. Sullivan masterfully directs the ensemble cast, drawing out nuanced performances that resonate with authenticity, even amidst the film's aspirational setting. It's a testament to his skill in portraying relatable human experiences within a heightened, somewhat glamorous context. "Rise" solidifies its spot on a "Best of Kevin Rodney Sullivan" list by showcasing his talent for visual storytelling and his signature directorial touch. The film's vibrant cinematography captures the energy of its setting and the characters' aspirations, while the soundtrack seamlessly blends with the narrative. More than just a lighthearted comedy, "Rise" offers subtle insights into the sacrifices and compromises often made in pursuit of the American Dream. It's a reminder that Sullivan's films are not simply entertaining, but also thought-provoking, leaving the audience with a lingering sense of optimism and a deeper understanding of the complexities of human relationships.
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