I want to lay a sheet of plastic on the ground before planting cantaloupe. Does it work?

The only time I have seen plastic sheeting used is in a flower garden. It is supposed to prevent weeds from growing aroung the base of the flower bush. It was explained to me that it keeps the UV rays from getting to the soil, and thus prevents growth. I have never used it, but if it is true, then your cantaloupes will not grow.