MOVIE REVIEW: Dreamgirls
Based on a Broadway musical from 1981, “Dreamgirls” follows the life of three aspiring soul singers and their perilous road to fame and fortune.
The first half of this film is full of zest and sparkle as we watch the trio sing perky R&B show tunes while covered in satin, sequins, and fringe.
But halfway through the film, when things become dark and serious, everything starts losing momentum and direction. The three singers lose their friendship, and they go their separate ways emotionally and professionally.
“Dreamgirls” does its best to remain dazzling and meaningful but only succeeds in doing so at certain moments.
It doesn’t end up being disastrous, but it doesn’t set the bar higher for films of this genre either. The film’s only memorable or redeeming qualities are Jennifer Hudson (bye bye, “American Idol”), playing a rising star, and Eddie Murphy (“Daddy Day Care”), playing a womanizing singer whose star is fading.
Hudson’s performance as a bold woman unshakably set on being a superstar is awesome. Her fervor, together with her voluminous voice, is like a flaming cannonball.
Known mostly for Broadway roles, Anika Noni Rose (“Temptation”) plays the third dreamgirl with endearing strength and humor.
Sadly, everyone else in this film gives an average performance. Beyoncé Knowles (“The Pink Panther”) and Jamie Foxx (“Ray”) do their job, but neither of them is reaching for more than a passing grade.
Fortunately, Hudson, Murphy and Rose all make it onto the dean’s list.
Casey T. Allen is the movie critic for The Utah Statesman. He can be reach via e-mail at caseyal@cc.usu.edu.