Movie review: ’35 & Ticking’

There’s not much new or profound about “35 & Ticking,” but a capable cast and a genial script make it an enjoyable look at friends of a certain age (37, despite the title). Although writer-director Russ Parr sometimes overstays his welcome — peppier editing would have helped — a generally warm approach helps distinguish his oft-told story.

A quartet of childhood allies grow up to find themselves at various pre-midlife crossroads: Beautiful sportscaster Zenobia (Nicole Ari Parker) is holding out for the perfect guy; best friend Victoria (Tamala Jones) wants a baby with her reluctant younger husband; steadfast Phil (Keith Robinson) is headed for a split with his party-girl wife; and anxious Cleavon (a nimble Kevin Hart) clumsily pursues his dream woman.

The four old pals (nicely introduced in a 1983-set prologue) collectively see one another through their watershed moments in ways authentic to people with shared history.

A clutch of lively supporting players, including Mike Epps and Wendy Raquel Robinson as Zenobia’s bickering neighbors, Darius McCrary as a bumptious NBA star and Luenell as an indiscreet receptionist at the sperm bank that regular depositor — and the otherwise unemployed — Cleavon considers his “workplace,” add to the amusement.

Fortunately, the film is peppered with enough believable drama to effectively counterbalance the broader bits.

“35 & Ticking.” MPAA rating: R for some crude content. Running time: 1 hour, 47 minutes. At the Rave Cinemas 15, Baldwin Hills.