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Since when is rap icon Common also an actor?

Common plays Scott McKnight, the love interest of Leslie Wright (Queen Latifah) in the new movie “Just Wright.” But Common had hit singles such as “The People,” so why is he throwing that away for an acting career that has a dull future?

The plot of “Just Wright” follows Leslie, a physical therapist in love with professional basketball team the New Jersey Nets. When Leslie’s gold-digger god-sister, Morgan Alexander (Paula Patton), goes after Scott McKnight because he is a NBA star, but immediately drops him after he becomes injured, Leslie helps him rehabilitate.

Once Scott is able to play in the NBA again, Morgan returns, hoping to secure some of his millions for herself by feigning love for him.

This web of lies and deceit continues until the film’s end–will Scott opt for the deceit of Morgan’s so-called love or go for what is just Wright for himself instead?

Though the plot is of the overdone romantic comedy style, the professional basketball component gives it a fresh twist. Yet not even that is enough to make you overlook Common’s poor performance. His emotionless acting skills weigh down every scene of “Just Wright,” as he sits there with a half-smile on his face, speaking as if he were asleep.

It is Latifah’s acting skills that save the movie. The Queen takes her character to new heights with the way she conducts herself in every scene, knowing full well that the audience won’t be able to take their eyes off her.

Dwight Howard and Dwayne Wade, NBA players, give excellent cameo appearances to compliment the movie and add to its basketball-themed storyline. Howard’s personality shines through particularly well, while Wade’s laidback, calm and cool persona is a subtle gem.