Plot: Single mother who's been chewed up and spit out by the music business hides herself away from life behind religion and raising her children. The youngest of her daughters loves to write and sing, but fights against her desire because of her mother. But, a series of twists and turns leads the trio of sisters to the stage, and right into the dangers their mother warned.
The original movie had actors like Philip Michael Thomas and Irene Cara, and in my opinion it was a true 70's movie deep with drugs, death, and family angst.
The remake had Derek Luke, Whitney Houston, Mike Epps, and Jordin Sparks. I can't say I thought the acting was anything great, but I did like a few of the loose ends that they cleaned up from the original. I loved the sass of Tika Sumpter. The emptiness of Carmen Ejogo was believable. But, I thought some actors' talents were a little wasted, namely Derek Luke. I've seen him much stronger in other pieces.
We've discussed Magic Mike before, at time while watching this movie, it felt like the female version. Some of the shots nearly ran right up the female actresses' dresses while on stage, especially Sister's. Some of the shots, I don't think were flattering. But, some did add layers of understanding to the relationship between Sister and Mike Epps' character, Satin.I think what I liked about this version vs. the original is that it showed the strength of family. I loved the sisters standing together to fight. I loved the sisters not giving up on each other. I loved that the mother in the end took a look at herself and went...this is my daughter's life.
Jordin Sparks has a beautiful voice, but I think some scenes of her singing didn't have heart...it felt overacted and too exaggerated. But, Carmen Ejogo matched her singing with her character's pain. And the sassy sister played by Tika Sumpter held her own.
In the original movie, again typical 70's style, everybody good doesn't win at the end. In this version, you're satisfied with where the characters are when the credits roll.
But, I wonder if the actors themselves were...I don't remember seeing anyone aside from Jordin Sparks promote the movie, which may speak a lot to the quality of the movie itself. Even if you look at the covers posted as part of this blog. The emphasis of the movie was Jordin Sparks, and I don't think she really had the acting talent to carry it. But, I did like the script. Overall, I would think this was a good Sunday afternoon movie to watch with your mother an your sister, if you have one.
Catch it in the matinee :-)
Hey, Angela! I saw "Sparkle," and did just what you suggested - watched it on a Sunday afternoon with my Mom. I agree. Jordin looks great, but her acting ability needs work. I think as a whole, more people need to revisit the days when instruction and education were valued. Acting lessons, anyone? Preferably before starring in a movie?
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