Dreamgirls-2006

Director Bill Condon

Starring Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson

Top 250 Films #159

Scott’s Film Review #792

Reviewed July 20, 2018

Grade: A

Dreamgirls (2006) is a glossy, show-business-style drama with plenty of glitz and glamour.

Adapted from the Broadway production of the same name, the story is loosely based on the trials and tribulations of The Supremes, a popular all-girl group from the 1960s.

Despite the film being heavily focused on the drama and tension between the characters, it boasts a wonderful soundtrack and fantastic acting- most notably newcomer Jennifer Hudson, who garnered a surprising Best Supporting Actress Oscar win for her role.

The film tells the story of the evolution of American R&B music during the 1960s and the 1970s- the action mainly taking place in Detroit, Michigan, where the genre began.

Taking center stage is the incarnation of a girl group called The Dreams, who are controlled by their manipulative record label executive, a conniver and creep, Curtis Taylor (Jamie Foxx), who guides the girls to stardom but beds both the beautiful Deena (Beyoncé) and the talented yet overweight Effie White (Jennifer Hudson).

This leads to conflict, as Curtis decides that the less talented Deena is more marketable and thus should be the band’s central figure.

With a stellar cast in tow, Dreamgirls contains a plethora of talent and a good history lesson to boot. The main draw in the acting department is the revelation of the talented Jennifer Hudson.

Winner of the talent show American Idol, she was met with much pooh-poohing for her film direction, apparently assuming she was a flash in the pan and a “reality television” star.

The challenging role of Effie is perfectly suited for Hudson- brazen, pipes for days, and plenty of attitude.

Her acting aside, Hudson scorches through an unforgettable rendition of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”, which is assuredly what won her the Oscar.

Otherwise, the supporting cast is worthwhile and impressive, with Beyoncé in a pivotal role. Surely, the singer/actress faced her share of detractors, as did Hudson, but their chemistry is amazing, and she nails all her songs.

Eddie Murphy is a gem in the role modeled after James Brown, James “Thunder” Early. The role is perfect for Murphy- a far cry from his standard comedic roles that have grown stale over the years.

This role rejuvenates the actor’s credibility.

Dreamgirls does, at times, falter a bit in its drama, with almost soap-opera-like ituations. A triangle forms among Effie, Curtis, and Deena, leading to tension, bad blood, cattiness, and melodrama.

If the film were a standard drama, it would undoubtedly suffer from a tired script or generic writing.

But the musical numbers are so riveting that these flaws can be completely overlooked. The glitz,  glamour, and sparkles that erupt during “Dreamgirls” and “One Night Only” are wonderful fun, and the songs are memorable, leaving audiences humming along as they dance in the aisles.

The story has been told many times before. A dream of rising to musical stardom and the many trials and tribulations that accompany these hopes and desires.

Comparisons can be made to Chicago (2002), Valley of the Dolls (1967), or even Gypsy (1962), but the mostly black cast and the 1960s Motown theme are interesting, particularly as the Civil Rights movement was underway.

The film does not invest much time in politics, sticking mainly to drama and music, which may be a wise move to avoid too much of a message.

As the film concludes in 1975, Effie is reaffirmed as a meaningful member of The Dreams after her career has tanked and she has wound up on welfare.

A paternity twist is also thrown in for good measure, but the film has a clear “happily ever after” vibe that softens it and keeps it more on the PG-13 side rather than leaning into darker themes.

Dreamgirls (2006) is a musical that is especially memorable to me because it made Jennifer Hudson a household name and confirmed the talent and glory she is rightfully due.

In subsequent years, the star lost weight, softened her image a bit, and became generic. But then, we have a gorgeous performance to always appreciate her for.

Oscar Nominations: 2 wins-Best Supporting Actor-Eddie Murphy, Best Supporting Actress-Jennifer Hudson (won), Best Original Song-“Listen”, “Love You I Do”, “Patience”, Best Sound Mixing (won), Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design