Love Jones (film)

Love Jones (stylized as love jones) is a 1997 American romantic comedy-drama film written and directed by Theodore Witcher in his feature directorial debut. The film stars Larenz Tate and Nia Long, with supporting performances by Isaiah Washington, Bill Bellamy, and Lisa Nicole Carson. Set in Chicago, the narrative follows the evolving relationship between a poet and a photographer as they navigate love, ambition, and personal growth.

Two of the poems recited by Long’s character, Nina Mosley, were written by acclaimed poet Sonia Sanchez and later published in her collection Like the Singing Coming Off the Drums: Love Poems.

Love Jones premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 17, 1997, and was released theatrically in the United States on March 14, 1997, by New Line Cinema. Although the film was well received by critics, it underperformed at the box office. Despite this, it has since developed a cult following and is considered a significant contribution to African-American cinema and the romantic drama genre. As of 2024, it remains Witcher’s only directorial feature.