Product: Cadillac Records [Blu-ray] (2008)
Rating: 5.0
Solid Performances in a Taste of R&B History
If Jeffrey Wright has ever given a bad performance on film, I have never seen it. He is a master at becoming the character he plays. In the 1950's biopic, Cadillac Records, Wright gives us a Muddy Waters portrayal that is worthy of Academy Award consideration. But his performance is definitely not the only award worthy performance on display here. Relative newcomer, Columbus Short, 26, turned in a stellar performance as blues harmonica man, Little Walter. Earlier he won acclaim for his role in Stomp the Yard. But the biggest surprise for me was the portrayal of Etta James by Beyonce Knowles. The former "Beyonce" is truly deserving of every accolade she is sure to receive for a heart-wrenching performance of a strong, yet self-destructive blues singer. Her acting is superb, and her singing will bring tears to your eyes.Mos Def is a believable Chuck Berry and, with more to do in this film, could have easily handled it. Eamonn Walker, whom you'll recognize from The Wire, is a haunting Howlin' Wolf. Gabrielle Union is given a meaty role as Muddy Waters's woman, and she shows us a depth of feeling that most actresses worth their salt would die to sink their teeth into. Cedric The Entertainer, playing songwriter Willie Dixon. The Dixon part of the story is vital because it flies in the face of the scenario that white men were the only people who made money from early black music. Tying all of these brilliant performances together is the central character of Leonard Chess, the owner of Chess records, as played by Adrien Brody.This film far exceeded my expectations in every respect, because it tells an untold story that pulls no punches. It is a human story, complete with genius, flaws and foibles. It is the story of Leonard Chess, Muddy Waters and the birth of the Chicago Blues. It tells the story without losing its entertainment value. It also shows how white artists of the day, ripped off black music. Chuck Berry, for example, sued the Beach Boys for copyright infringement... and won.I highly recommend this movie to those who want to be connected with the foundation of Rock `n Roll and Blues. 5 Big Stars - one each for Wright, Knowles, Short, Mos Def and Union.