Though the film is bursting with incredible performances, anchored by Barrino’s Celie, it never really sings.
If theres no other reason for this movie to exist, permanently capturing Barrinos performance is sufficient.
Of course, what is a musical without an inner monologue voiced in song?
Fantasia Barrino in ‘The Color Purple’.Everett Collection
Barrino nails that aspect of the role as well.
It is the performances, not the musical numbers, that makeThe Color Purplesing.
Its a performance that is both showy and restrained, a master class in acting.
Colman Domingo in ‘The Color Purple’.Everett Collection
Its musical numbers dont feel essential to the storytelling (nor is it a particularly striking score).
It lacks a decisive point of view when it comes to its genre trappings.
It lands its tear-jerking finale, but many moments that should be emotionally devastating or cathartic instead ring hollow.
Taraji P. Henson in ‘The Color Purple’.Everett Collection
Instead, its just… here.Grade: B
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Danielle Brooks in ‘The Color Purple’.Everett Collection
