wonderful musical drama - Hudson is sensational

Rating: 8/10 (22 February 2007)

After reviewing the Oscar nominations and seeing that this 2006 musical drama based upon the lives of three soulful singers was up for 8 Oscars, including actor (Murphy, Beverly Hills) and actress (Hudson) for supporting roles, I knew this film was a must see, and I'm glad I went to see it.
Juxtaposed are three zeitgeistian stars, Knowles more known for her music than her acting presently, Hudson for her voice and surely also a new star on the rise in Anika Noni Rose, all starring as three female singers looking to make it to fame and fortune.
The film is inspirational for those wanting and thinking of the fame route and through controversial issues such as bribery, stealing, law bending activities the film achieves realism to demonstrate the road is difficult, but achievable.
I found this film particularly interesting through Jennifer Hudson's powerful character. Hudson deserves her Oscar nomination for best actress in a supporting role as she performed magnificently as the singer who was under the most pressure which is further emphasised towards the end of the film, which is extremely moving and very powerful, showing the bad times as well as the good times for the singer.
The story is well written and captures audience interest right from the very beginning. However there are many scenes which you wish would just end and many songs failed to capture the essence of the time. But more often than not, the songs were sensational and really captured the essence of the 60's and 70's.
The songs make this film what it is. I was particularly moved by Hudson whose powerful voice was captivating and moving in the difficult scenes of the film. Beyonce to also emphasises why she is a famous female singer with many group and solo songs to show her beauty and power against the odds.
It's a slow moving film, captured with amazing songs and a well written plot. Though feeling some scenes were perhaps unrealistic in context the film definitely conforms to the musical drama genre and is a must see for song lovers and passionate people.
worth seeing