A Review

Now to talk about the second movie I watched within the last week that almost made me cry. The first was the Zac Efron wrestling drama The "Iron Claw." The other is the new musical of "The Color Purple." You’d think as someone who is familiar with the book and has seen the original starring Whoopi Goldberg and directed by Steven Spielberg that I’d be prepared for this retelling of a story I already know. Yet, here we are. This is a beautiful movie.

Worthy to bear the name of the 1985 screen version and the classic American novel they are both adapted from, "The Color Purple" is one of the best musicals made in years on top of being among the most successful remakes and book-to-film transitions. The essence of Alice Walker’s original work has remained consistent through both screen interpretations. It’s a crucial portrait of Black life in the mid-20th century Deep South and a feminist journey of discovering empowerment. It’s also a love story. Not a love story in the traditional romantic sense like "Casablanca" or "The Fault in Our Stars" are. Instead it’s a love story between two sisters, chronicling the pain of having the one you care the most for torn from you, but never losing hope you may one day be reunited. The stunning music, choreography, and camera work only enhance this already timeless story.

This was one of the most engrossing, almost spiritual experiences I have had in a movie theater in a while. From its opening sequence onward, I was completely swept up in this vibrant and alive showcase of movie magic. The ensemble cast is all around terrific from Fantasia Barrino’s resilient Celie to Coleman Domingo’s wicked Mister. Taraji P. Henson is scene stealing as Shug Avery as is Danielle Brooks as the proud and independent Sophia. The production is first rate with great music and dance numbers stitching together the emotionally charged plot. Even things as simple as cuts and scene transitions have noticeable creative touches to them. I can’t gush enough about "The Color Purple." This is a must see if you love the book, the movie, the stage musical, or if you just love movies and musicals in general.