Passing the Torch with Pride
The buzz is all about the new musical film adaptation of “The Color Purple,” and the stars, Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks, are making it clear they want to make Oprah Winfrey proud. These leading ladies are taking on iconic roles played by Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah in the 1985 film and are ready to bring a fresh vibe to the story.
New Faces, Same Blueprint
Brooks shared that it’s pretty cool for them to carry the torch from legends like Goldberg and Oprah. They’re not here to change the blueprint but definitely want to add a bit of their own flavor to the characters of Celie and Sofia.
Powerful Producers in the House
Hold up, Oprah is not just an icon in front of the camera; she’s also a producer for the new film. Steven Spielberg, who directed the 1985 version, is also on board. And guess what? Goldberg isn’t just handing over the torch; she’s got a cameo in the new film.
Big Shoes, No Biggie
Playing roles previously portrayed by powerhouse actors could be intimidating, but these new stars aren’t letting it get to them. Brooks acknowledges moments of wanting to make Goldberg and Oprah proud but sees it as passing the torch, just like the midwife scene from the original film.
Barrino’s Life and Art Collide
Fantasia Barrino, playing Celie, has a life story that might have influenced her approach to the film. In her memoir, she opened up about facing challenges like rape, teen pregnancy, and illiteracy. Celie’s journey in the film mirrors hardship, abuse, but also resilience and solidarity among women.
Beauty in Pain: A Positive Movie
Despite the tough scenes portraying abuse and struggle, Brooks emphasizes that “The Color Purple” is a positive movie. She sees beauty in pain, stating that sharing these stories can be healing for others. The film, based on Alice Walker’s book, delves into racism and segregation in early 20th-century Georgia.
From Page to Screen: A Timeless Tale
Walker’s book, a Pulitzer Prize winner from 1982, continues to resonate, addressing racism and segregation. Brooks, a long-time fan, says there’s still so much to gain from this story, and Barrino agrees, stating that everyone wanted to be part of an honest narrative.
Is America Still a Racist Country?
When asked about racism today, Brooks likens it to a “bad relationship,” with two races figuring out how to love each other. According to Barrino, while things have changed, she doesn’t think hate is everywhere.
Lights, Camera, Inclusion
Directed by Blitz Bazawule, the film includes songs from the Broadway musical, blending gospel, blues, and jazz. Both Barrino and Brooks were part of the Broadway musical in 2005, and the film has a star-studded cast, including Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, and Halle Bailey. koin303
Critical Acclaim and On-Set Controversies
The film, released in the US on December 25, has received positive reviews for its musical joy but also faced controversies regarding on-set working conditions and pay inequality, following an interview with Taraji P. Henson.