Brilliant And Entertaining—Review Of The Color Purple (2023)

2024-01-11T17:22:15
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I'd been looking forward to the release of this impressive movie ever since I saw the trailer. Seeing the familiar faces of actors like Taraji P. Henson, Corey Hawkins and Halle Bailey captivated me to watch it.
While this recent release is another adaptation of Alicia Walker's novel, I've not seen the first adaptation made in 1985 which starred popular actors like Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg and Danny Glover. This film is an updated adaptation with a young cast or maybe it can be called a reboot.
The Color Purple (2023) is a musical period drama about two sisters, Celie (played by Fantasia Barrino) and Nettie (played by Halle Bailey), born of the same mother and very close. They love to sing and play like little kids only when they are alone with each other. But their home is a dark place ruled by an abusive and oppressive father.
Then the sisters are separated and Celie is ‘sold’ in marriage to Mister (played by Colman Domingo). It's like moving from a hot, frying pan into fire. Mister becomes a worse version of Celie's father. When their father attempts to molest Nettie, she escapes and runs away, promising to write to her sister everyday. Celie is heartbroken and pushes through her depressing life until she meets Shug (played by Taraji P. Henson), a jazz singer. What does fate have in store for these two sisters? Will they ever lay eyes on each other again?

Review

This movie surpassed my expectations. The plot is brilliant, a heart-wrenching yet amazing portrayal of the life of a black woman in the 1900s, her connection with her family and how she transcends her challenges. The storytelling is well-executed and spellbinding, making it a film that captivates anyone who sees it and lingers for a long time in the mind. I've not seen the older adaptation of this film but I like this one better.


One part that stands out is the casting and performance of the actors. They put their hearts and souls into this film and I'll say they were rightly chosen for their parts. They embodied their characters so well that it was like watching real life unfold on screen.
Fantasia Barrino and Phylicia Pearl Mpasi who played the role of older and younger Celie were superb. Their acting was touching and portrayed the grievances, pain, strength and resilience of their character. I wouldn't have wanted anyone else to play this part. Fantasia Barrino's chemistry with Halle Bailey as older Nettie was so real and believable.
I enjoyed seeing Taraji P. Henson on screen as it's been a while. As always, her presence was loud and compelling. Also, Danielle Brooks' presence in this film was simply fascinating. I commend the filmmakers for their good choice on casting and directing.
I was hooked by the soundtracks, the singing, dancing and choreography. They were impressive. The cinematography was excellent and so were the makeup and costumes that beautifully recreated the 1900 era.
Overall, The Color Purple is a masterpiece in my opinion and worth watching. It's an amazing story of love, sisterhood, family, resilience and the influence of society. If there's a film that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of its audience, it's this one and I recommend it to all cinephiles.
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Images are screenshots from the trailer linked from YouTube
Posted using CineTV
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