First off, let me say that I thought the two Barbershop movies were fairly amusing and enjoyable movies. At the same time, I don't consider them great films that simply must be seen.
Barbershop the series is a whole different level. Trust me when I say this show is not some trite and corny UPN-type series. It is pure comedy in the mold of Arrested Development or Curb Your Enthusiasm, with a little Def Comedy Jam thrown in. Hectic, witty, and blunt, the show tackles issues from relationships to politics to family with the delivery of a stand-up comic.
Omar Gooding far exceeds Ice Cube as the sarcastic centerpiece and many of the other characters have been upgraded as well. In fact, it seems that each character (with the exception of Cedric the Entertainer's) has not only been replaced by a funnier and better looking counterpart, but the actors are much more skilled as well. There is an abundance of eye candy for both sexes. As far as acting, Toni Trucks nails Terri as the demanding, yet vulnerable female presence in the shop. Leslie Elliard's spastic, hopelessly ambitious Jimmy provides the most audible laughs.
Watch a couple episodes expecting a lot of silliness, intelligence, and sexiness and enjoy yourself.
