In this film, the family secrets seem to be fully revealed when a close gay gay man (Rockmond Dunbar) returns home to see his mother (Loretta Devine). Things seem to be turned upside down when he discovers a mysterious, face-to-face mystery with the traditional Southern family mysteriously.
Mr. Jamal's direction ranges from clumsy to competent. Fortunately, even as Mr. Jamal's characters hit notes reminiscent of a half-baked television pilot, they disclose eccentricities that his cast spins into comic gold.
Black Star News
December 07, 2007
Even though homophobia may be more of a hurdle in the 'hood than Hollywood, this ensemble's supportive response to Sheldon's revealing his sexual preference proves to be a surprisingly sweet way to close out this well-meaning message movie.
Jamal's comedy of family dysfunction is essentially a sitcom episode writ large; it's not subtle, but it's good-natured and hits its marks with ruthless efficiency.
The film's plea for tolerance is commendable but would have more weight if only it were executed with more panache.
Film Journal International
December 19, 2007
By far the best of a plethora of holiday family-reunion films, Maurice Jamal's warmly hilarious Dirty Laundry is particularly blessed with the presence of Loretta Devine
Overwritten and under-directed by Maurice Jamal, the movie contains several honest moments but remains too awash in clichà (C)s and stereotypes to take seriously.
Is it sidesplitting? No, but it's cute. Is it wonderfully wicked? No, but it's got a few twists and turns. Is it a classic? Probably not, but it's an encouraging move into a new kind of gay film and a story not often told.