PopViewers recently had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Naturi Naughton-Lewis. While discussing her impactful role in Lifetime’s Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie, we took a fun detour to discover her all-time favorite movies. From heartwarming romances to powerful dramas, Naturi’s top picks reflect her deep appreciation for storytelling. Here are her top 5 favorite movies and why they hold a special place in her heart.
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1. Love Jones (1997)
Synopsis: This classic romantic drama tells the story of Darius (Larenz Tate), a poet, and Nina (Nia Long), a photographer, who meet in a nightclub in Chicago. Their whirlwind romance explores the complexities of love, career ambitions, and the artistic spirit.
Why Naturi Loves It: “Working with Lorenz Tate in Power, I was like, ‘you don’t know what this means to me.’ I was obsessed with Love Jones, and he and Nia Long changed my life!”
2. Love & Basketball (2000)
Synopsis: This beloved film follows the intertwined lives of Monica (Sanaa Lathan) and Quincy (Omar Epps), two childhood friends who share a love for basketball. As they pursue their dreams of becoming professional players, their relationship faces various trials and triumphs.
Why Naturi Loves It: She just does!
3. The Color Purple (1985) & The Color Purple (2023)
Synopsis: The 1985 adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows the life of Celie (Whoopi Goldberg), an African American woman in the early 20th century South, who faces severe abuse and hardship but eventually finds her voice and strength. The 2023 remake brings a fresh perspective to the powerful narrative with a new cast and vibrant storytelling.
Why Naturi Loves It: “The original and the new one, which I love! My friend Danielle Brooks is in it and she kills it. Go, Dani!”
4. Beaches (1988)
Synopsis: This poignant drama follows the lifelong friendship between CC Bloom (Bette Midler), an aspiring singer, and Hillary Whitney (Barbara Hershey), a rich debutante. Despite their different backgrounds, they share a deep bond that withstands various life challenges and triumphs.
Why Naturi Loves It: “Beaches is a classic! Every time I watch that movie it’s a cleansing. If I know I need to cry, I put Beaches on.”
5. Jason’s Lyric (1994)
Synopsis: This romantic drama centers on Jason (Allen Payne), a young man in Houston trying to escape his troubled past, and Lyric (Jada Pinkett Smith), a woman with whom he falls deeply in love. Their relationship faces numerous obstacles, including family conflicts and personal demons.
Why Naturi Loves It: “I love love stories!”
Naturi’s Iconic Role in the POWER Universe
While Naturi Naughton-Lewis has a deep love for these timeless classics, she has also made a significant mark in the television world with her role as Tasha St. Patrick in the POWER universe. Known for her powerful and nuanced portrayal, Naturi brought depth and complexity to the character, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Her work in Power and its spin-offs, including Power Book II: Ghost, has solidified her status as a formidable force in the entertainment industry, showcasing her exceptional range and talent.
A Quick Look at Naturi’s New Project
Naturi continues to captivate audiences with her recent project, Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie, now available on Lifetime. The film highlights the urgent issue of missing Black women and girls, particularly from underserved communities, and showcases Naturi’s commitment to meaningful and powerful storytelling.
Stay tuned to PopViewers.com for more exclusive interviews and updates on the latest in film and television!
