Setting up a woman like Mo'Nique as a role model for overweight women may do more damage to their self-images than all the fashion magazines in the world could.

even though this movie is a bit of a mess, it turns out to be unexpectedly sweet and funny. Its very amateurishness gives it freshness and authenticity.

[Mo’Nique's] sassy forte may be talking so straight-up she sounds crazy, but she seems a little advanced to be doing 'yo mama' jokes.

While it's a pleasure to watch the likeable Kendra Johnson open up and come out of her shell, Phat Girlz belongs to Mo'Nique, a grating, belligerent woman who alternates self-deprecating fat jokes with drama-queen meltdowns and simpering pleas for

Uneven but lovable, "Phat Girlz" comes strutting on to the screen. As well it should.

Outrageous comedy? damn right!!! I'm outraged that there's no comedy here AT ALL!!!!

I'm recommending it, barely, because I think it speaks pretty well to a certain audience and does so from the heart.

Just a protracted fat joke.