Guest Author - Rain Battle

Written and directed by Nnegest Likké, "Phat Girlz" is the story of Jazmin Biltmore, a woman who dreams of designing clothing that will make plus-sized women - like her - feel beautiful and desirable. Although Jazmin is funny and attractive, she isn't as confident about herself as she is about her designing abilities. Like most women regardless of their size, she just wants to be loved and accepted for who she is.

When Jazmin wins a trip to Palm Springs, she takes her best friends. While there, the unexpected occurs. A handsome doctor sees Jazmin and it's love at first sight - for him. As a native Nigerian, Tunde Jonathan is appreciative of Jazmin's voluptuous body and quick mind. He begins to woo her, repeatedly assuring her that he is only interested in her because she is beautiful and sexy to him. In fact, her size is a plus (no pun intended) where he's from, where the larger the woman, the better their social status.

Throughout the film, Jazmin works consistently to prove to the world that her size is not a hindrance. What she learns is that she must accept herself as she is before she can believe in the love of a man who truly wants her.

"Phat Girlz" stars comedienne Mo'Nique, one of the original Queens of Comedy, as the outspoken but insecure Jazmin. Mo'Nique claims to have fallen in love with the script immediately. Starring in several big budget films like Tony Scott's "Domino," Mo'Nique was one of the main supporters of the low budget "Phat Girlz" being made. A long-time supporter of plus-sized women being portrayed in a positive spotlight, Mo'Nique was the first choice for the role of Jazmin. She has starred in a show that featured three women who all struggled with their weight - "The Parkers" - hosted a pageant called "Fat Chance" in which all of the contestants were full-figured, written a book about weight, and often discusses her size in her stand-up act.

Model turned actor Jimmy Jean-Louis ("Monster-In-Law") stars opposite Mo'Nique as Tunde Jonathan. Although he is always a joy to look at, he can also boast a fantastic screen presence and actual acting talent. The films also stars comedian Godfrey ("Soul Plane"), Kendra C. Johnson, Joyful Drake ("Beauty Shop"), and Jack Noseworthy ("Undercover Brother"). Also watch for Raven Goodwin ("Lovely & Amazing"), who is always adorable.


Extra! Extra!
*NOTE: In this film, the word "Phat" is used as an acronym for "Pretty, Hot, and Thick."

Songworthy: "African Queen" - 2Face Idibia
The lyrics to this song are just great.