Trouble Man: An Action-Packed Homage to Blaxploitation Cinema

"Trouble Man" Review: Michael Jai White Stars in a Homage to Blaxploitation Cinema Michael Jai White delivers a dynamic performance in "Trouble Man," an action-comedy set in Atlanta that pays tribute to classic blaxploitation films. White, who also directs his fourth feature, features his wife Gillian White among a talented ensemble of Hollywood veterans. The film showcases impressive martial arts choreography, highlighting White's skills, though some fight scenes suffer from obvious fake hits that diminish their realism. While the movie offers moments of humor and clever dialogue that resonate with White's charismatic persona and educational messages, these elements are insufficient to sustain the storyline of a convoluted kidnapping mystery, which progresses at a sluggish pace. Set against Atlanta's vibrant backdrop, the plot centers on Jaxen (White), a former police officer turned bodyguard, law student, and nightclub security chief, who also works as a fixer for hire. Known for his rough approach, Jaxen prefers non-lethal methods and often advocates for better behavior, especially condemning the casual use of the N-word, punishing offenders accordingly—such as a doctor who ab...