Dreamgirls – A Movie To See

Last night I saw Dreamgirls for the second time.  If there is a movie in the theatres right now that is worth seeing this is definitely it.  The entire production is just stellar.  In both of my viewings the audience was clapping both during and after the movie (something that happens so rarely nowadays). 

While all the actors/singers (or the other way around depending on the performer) are just wonderful Jennifer Hudson really stands out above the rest.  Her voice is truly amazing, emotional and full of power and depth.  When she sings I get a feeling deep down in my gut that says, “This is raw vocal talent at its peak.”  It distresses me that Beyonce has top billing in the movie, since the story really follows Ms. Hudson’s character more closely.  Frankly, I’m not sure why Beyonce would even take the role as her voice is directly compared with Ms. Hudson’s time and again throughout the film, and it is quite obviously who comes out on top. 

Eddie Murphy was a surprise hit in the film.  His infectious smile just lights up the screen, and his musical performance really quite entertaining.  His character shows many different faces throughout the film, each done with a great deal of care and professionalism. 

The one slight (and I do mean slight) disappointment is the voice of Jamie Foxx.  While he plays his character well, he just does not have the pipes to complete with his co-stars.  He voices is really quite breathy and just does not match the power of the other singers.  His acting also falls a bit when he sings; otherwise the performance is stellar.

So go out and treat yourself to a movie.  See Dreamgirls with some friends that really appreciate a little soul in their lives.