Hidden Gem: The 6th Man

Some of you may know this black classic and some of you may not. If you don’t, let me educate you on the brilliance of this film.

The film stars Kadeem Hardison, my Dwayne Wayne from A Different World, and the always hilarious Marlon Wayans. For background, at this time in his career, Marlon was the movie brother like Damon and Keenan, more so Damon. Anyway, the movie centers around the Tyler brothers. The duo are basketball protégés but the oldest, Antoine (Hardison) is the true star. Kenny (Wayans) is kind of stuck being his brother’s sidekick. At one of their big games, Antoine does a dunk and his heart stops. He died on the way to the hospital. The duo is now solo.

Of course, Kenny is lost. He’s lost his basketball partner, his brother and his heart. Antoine was the star of the team and now, everyone is looking to him to take his place. Kenny is not ready for this challenge….not without Antoine. But he may not have to do it for long….

Through an act of the Lord, probably some magic and tears, Antoine comes back which is a relief to Kenny that soon turns into resentment and annoyance.

I think the first time I was introduced to this movie was when I was probably around 12 or 13 and it was in UPN. I feel in love with the storyline, the actors (obviously) and the funny moments from Marlon. There will always be a laugh from a Wayans.

To see the transformation of Kenny throughout the film, and even the transformation of Antoine in death, is a concept I hadn’t seen before introducing myself to this film. Even in death, there is a lesson to learn, Antoine!

The dynamic between Hardison and Wayans was phenomenal. We know Marlon has nine other siblings and a sleu of other family members and I felt in watching this film that I was watching him with Shawn or Damon or even Keenan. The chemistry was effortless and you can tell they were getting on each other’s nerves like real brothers do. I’m sure Marlon helped with that. LOL.

The 6th Man can be found on Amazon Prime for $3. I recommend watching it because I said so!! I’ll leave you with one of my favorite songs from the movie by Public Demand, “Invisible Man.”