Cover (2007)

Cover Poster

When someone is murdered on New Year's Eve, the prime suspect is Valerie Maas, a church-going home-maker whose life unravels when she discovers that her husband of many years has been leading a double life. Her strength of character and faith keep her going as the revelation of her husband's betrayal threatens to destroy all that they have known.

Summary of Storyline
"Cover" is a 2007 drama-mystery movie directed by Bill Duke. The movie's plot focuses on Valerie Maas (Aunjanue Ellis), a church-going other half and mom who suddenly finds her life turned upside down when her spouse Dutch (Razaaq Adoti) is accused of a murder. Dutch had been having an adulterous gay affair, unbeknownst to Valerie.

The departed, Ryan Chambers (Leon), was an HIV+ male who was murdered in Dutch's vehicle, and Dutch was found in a compromising situation which resulted in him being the prime suspect. Ryan was an odd character who used scriptural teaching to justify his way of life and actions.

Valerie, having a hard time to manage the shocking revelations about her spouse and keeping her Christian faith, discovers herself linked in a murder charge as proof versus her surface areas. Despite her pleas of innocence, she is tried for murder as the story spirals into an awesome court drama.

Drama and Suspense
Drama and suspense unwinds as Valerie as she has a hard time in finding the fact while maintaining her faith and preserving the unity of her family, particularly for her children's sake. An aspect of suspense is added with a constant concern of whether Dutch was really guilty, whether Valerie was framed, or if there is another covert layer to the catastrophe.

Characters and Performances
"The Cover" is decorated with a great ensemble cast, with Aunjanue Ellis's power-packed efficiency standing apart as a strong female navigating her method through scandal and a criminal trial. Razaaq Adoti convincingly depicts the character of Dutch, a male under societal pressures who becomes entrapped in their effects. Vivica A. Fox likewise stars as Monica, a tangy character who adds flavor to the film.

Styles
The movie mainly explores styles of faith, household, deceit, and social stigmatization of HIV and homosexuality in the black neighborhood. In addition, it highlights the criminal justice procedures and the often-conflicting intersectionality of religion, sexual preference, and social pressures. The component of whodunit keeps the film engaging while it keeps a strong statement on typically whispered truths.

Conclusion of the Film
Valerie's legal representative, Zahara (Victoria Rowell), reveals brand-new details that eventually exonerates Valerie and exposes the true killer- Kevin Wilson (Omar Tyree). Kevin was Dutch's envious ex-lover. His plot was to frame Valerie as a conceal for his cruel act versus Dutch, who had picked his family over him. Valerie is discovered not guilty by the jury while Kevin is apprehended.

Critics' Reception
In general, "Cover" received blended evaluations. While it was praised for its vibrant narrative and tight efficiencies, it was slammed for its handling of specific delicate themes. Regardless of these criticisms, the movie effectively provides a tale of faith, betrayal, deceit, and redemption while attempting to clarify many social and individual concerns.

Top Cast

  • Aunjanue Ellis (small)
    Aunjanue Ellis
    Valerie Mass
  • Razaaq Adoti (small)
    Razaaq Adoti
    Dutch Mass (as Raz Adoti)
  • Vivica A. Fox (small)
    Vivica A. Fox
    Zahara Milton
  • Leon (small)
    Leon
    Ryan Chambers
  • Louis Gossett Jr. (small)
    Louis Gossett Jr.
    Detective Hicks
  • Paula Jai Parker (small)
    Paula Jai Parker
    Monica Wilson
  • Roger Guenveur Smith (small)
    Roger Guenveur Smith
    Kevin Parker
  • Richard Gant (small)
    Richard Gant
    Robert Maas
  • Mýa (small)
    Mýa
    Cynda
  • Obba Babatundé (small)
    Obba Babatundé
    Attorney Miller
  • Patti LaBelle (small)
    Patti LaBelle
    Mrs. Persons