The Color Purple (2023) Movie Review

[@justmyopinion84]

My bad y'all Corey Hawkins, not Corey Holcomb. We all make mistakes sometimes. I miss spoke. Taraji P Henson Talks Hollywood Pay - tinyurl.com/58brw7k6

[@walterjohnson4813]

5150 nihhhhga

[@Chicago48]

Yes I thought why are they making a 4th version of the CP. I've read the book, saw the musical and the movie. I don't need to see this version.

[@tonyareed5083]

The 1985 film was boycotted by the NAACP because of its negative depictions of Black men. The 2003 version seems intentionally written to show the redeeming qualities of the men, with brilliant acting by Colman Domingo and Corey Hawkins, et al.

[@lenettranixon4683]

Exactly at the end I did tear up. I've read some of the book, I own the original movie but I'm not into musicals much but I felt the latest one was decent. I like the difference between the two movies.

[@BlissfulBundlesgiftshop]

We know! lol

[@GodisLovetoo]

I was pleased to see Whoopi Goldberg taking some part in the film!

[@rhomeNmpire]

She delivered her own baby 😉

[@GodisLovetoo]

@@rhomeNmpire LOL, Yes she did!

[@sierrakuny5478]

She’s in the original, she wouldn’t pass up the new one

[@mytenncents121]

David Alan Grier was a wonderful surprise. I simply loved the new take on one of my all time favorite films

[@hellotracie4135]

He should have played Mister. DAG is soooo underrated.

[@mytenncents121]

He played a part in Queen sugar as Jimmy Earl..evil and very mean.he would have been great as Mister.

[@ParadiseLoading]

There was not a single person who was weak or miscast! This was a BEAUTIFUL production, and I am so thankful for it, especially the Philly connections 😊. I would never comparenthe 85 version to this because I feel they both stand on their own. Strong, wonderful performances, and I shed many tears! Every aspect was stunning and I want to see it again!

[@joyceshipp9831]

I agree with you about the casting except for Mister's father that was played by Louis Gossett Jr. ,who I think has a great body of work but it seemed as though his speech was kinda muffled. Maybe he had or has a medical situation. But Adolph Ceasar as Mister's father in the original, was phenomenal .

[@GodsRemnant917]

@@joyceshipp9831 Yes Louis Gossett Jr. appeared to be dotage. I thought Glynn Turnman could have done that character stronger.

[@nikkiervinmusic]

No sir… Fantasia did NOT give the same emotional depth that Whoopi gave as Celie. Absolutely not BUT Fantasia did a great job. The thing is, she expresses herself best when she’s singing. I cried all the way through ‘I’m Here.’ She did that! If this was an actual remake and not a ‘reimagining’ as they call it, we would be able to better gauge Fantasia’s acting abilities. Whoopi played the hell outta that part!

[@Renee_nf094e]

🎯💯🎯💯

[@jjenk021]

I absolutely agree with you. Whoopi added a lot of depth to that role!! Heck, it even made her a superstar afterwards! Fantasia was good but no way she played that role better than Whoopi!

[@whatchuknowboutdat5740]

Whoopi embodied sadness and timidness through her silence and gestures

[@JustBree716]

I agree. I think it was because they made it a musical it was a lot going on but I took didn't feel much depth. I did think it was a decent job

[@oliviah.4741]

I was waiting for this comment. I feel the same way 100%

[@k.k.0088]

In the book Celie and Mister eventually became friends after she left him. They would sit on the porch together every day and talk. This version of the movie is more true to that redemption story than the original.

[@EuphoricViibes]

I just saw the film. At first I was a bit weary when the singing started however at the end of it all I felt that the musical aspect helped the film feel much lighter than the original without talking away from the original story. I liked that it didn’t feel drawn out at all and the songs weren’t too long it was lovely and I cried a few times. I loved it 💜

[@ErnieLanham]

The movie is about incest, abuse, and addiction how can you enjoy happy songs? What musical is next?...precious???

[@janessamarie4601]

I rewatched the original before going seeing it in theaters, had been years since I’d seen it. It still evokes a lot of the same powerful emotions. The 2023 movie was still good, but I wasn’t blown away. However, the cinematography was beautiful. The highlight was Danielle Brooks’ monologue at the dinner table scene. Ciara as Nettie wasn’t so believable for me.

[@tjack25]

Youre spot on

[@OakCliffTX82]

Is new version as heavy as OG film?

[@tjack25]

@@OakCliffTX82 nope. No way near as heavy.

[@tierraweatherspoon3419]

Yeah Ciara was cringe for me in this movie 😫. Ima need her and Beyonce to have several seats in this actin business. Im glad Ciara didn’t do much singin either. However I really enjoyed H.E.R. She actually is a talented musician.

[@lcwisdom1]

I just can't see how this movie would be better than the first. There's no way.

[@maryjo5211]

The entire cast of “The Color Purple 2023” came to slay and they were 💯 successful! Preparation met Opportunity, the cast knew their assignment and it came through on screen!

[@joshuamcdowell9745]

Fun fact: Fantasia actually got hit in the abuse scene. She insisted on doing it instead of using a stunt double. Colman Domingo was hesitated at first. Fantasia did it as a way to let go of stuff that she was holding on to.

[@lalauninterrupted2086]

Oh wow thanks for that

[@tay-ko2xk]

where you hear that from ?

[@JAMESWILLIAMS-xn3cm]

@@tay-ko2xkFantasia actually said it herself on an recent interview

[@Prodigious1One]

Whoa, strong actress.

[@sblood300]

You’re right, that is fun.

[@Lexiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii]

I saw it this morning and it was amazing!! I cried and laughed!! 💜

[@KeishaCharmaine]

Just got out the theater. I enjoyed it much more than the 1985 film, which to me felt depressing. I guess the singing lightened it up though I did get teary eyed a few times, firstly when we saw Whoopi as the midwife. I’m happy she was involved in this film too.

[@justmyopinion84]

Really glad you liked it

[@DJ-gy7ze]

One thing I noticed is this film gave Celie more speaking lines than the original. I liked that because I often wondered how Celia felt about certain situations outside of narrating “Dear God…”

[@vitasporan566]

It seems that Shug, Olivia, and Harpo had more lines, too. But, given that the story is strength-of-the-female heavy, I am not surprised that the women had more lines. I might read the book someday to see what the author, who is a feminist, actually penned. I have a feeling that, per usual, I'll love the book more than either movie version of her story.

[@kiwthebeauty]

@10:22 You've helped me realize something about a scene in The Color Purple. When Fantasia/Celie watches Harpo and Sophia's wedding, it stirs up emotions in her, leading to her sulking. As she witnesses their happiness, she comes to the realization that she never had the chance to experience marriage as a source of joy because it was forced upon her. She never had a wedding or even shared a kiss with Mister when they got married. It's confusing for her why they can sing and dance, while she couldn't. This is why she confesses to Sophia that she feels jealous. Marriage wasn't her choice, and that's why she was upset and sulking. Marriage was slavery for her and thus why she couldn’t be happy for Sophia in the moment. Thanks for helping me realize this in the film I overlooked her sulking as such.

[@Hottestsummer]

Yessss that's deep and now looking back your correct sis...

[@squeaky82SP]

I typically dislike musicals, but I agree the transitions in this film were awesome and made the film tolerable and even enjoyable.

[@MattaBinElba]

Agreed…they were seamless

[@ronaldsprowal9978]

That's why I'm not Going see it Cos it's A Musical 😊 I seen the 1980s version. I was going watch this one to found out it was a Musical

[@suelycarneiro666]

Same here

[@melanielogan5094]

I've seen the 1985 movie, read the book, seen the broadway play, and saw the new movie yesterday. For me, the original movie is the best of the 4, with this new movie being the least. It's not that it was bad or shouldn't be seen, it just didn't hit like the other 3. Part of it has to do with being at the movies rather than streaming. It felt less intimate than the others. All in all, Fantasia, Taraji, and Danielle were good, and the cameos were nice, but it's just not the one.

[@angeleyes3386]

I agree but happy they brought a musical/play version to the big screen. Nothing beats the book tho.

[@rowlaanbennett7296]

I agree it was a good movie but I felt that they wanted to play it SAFE! They made it more lighthearted! Important moments of the story felt RUSHED! They relationship between shug and her father was in briefly touched on in this film and the razor scene with shug running to stop Celie was cheated from us as well

[@karengauthier3791]

I TOTALLY AGREE with every word. Couldn’t have said it better. I thought it was OK, but NOTHING COMPARES to the ORIGINAL MOVIE!! NOTHING! I really expected to be blown away. Maybe my expectations were too high.

[@janessamarie4601]

I don’t understand the “anti men” criticism some people have either. The film / book are based on the character Celie’s truth. Her experience was traumatic but it’s HER story. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@cressapellom4205]

Exactly. And I’m sure this kind thing did happen to multiple girls back then but that doesn’t make me hate all black men, it’s just telling a story. One of many I’m sure.

[@angeleyes3386]

I mean it did show the thought process of the men in the story. The book shows it more. Women were like mules: work, raise kids, care for the man, lay down and take it. Don’t think it should rise to the idea that ALL men were like that, just the men highlighted in the storylines.

[@keishawillis9439]

I loved Sophia! She was great! I would like to see more of her

[@merrickbeaufort8048]

Angry Masculine Black Woman. All the worst stereotypes

[@livingmybestlife8410]

Hello, I am new to your channel and I appreciate that you did this assessment of the Color Purple. Historically, African American (AA) culture, we have been depicted singing and dancing, not necessarily as a negative connotation of the AA experience, but more so as a means of recognition of out ability to overcome in times of adversity. For example, in the AA experience, while in slavery, the AA people would be witness singing songs. Yet, there was a reason behind this. Their expressions through song, was their way to express their anger, rage and contempt for the oppression that they were experiencing.

[@drtroyturner7464]

The vinyl daydream was appropriate because it was showing how Shug was a well produced recording star who was world renown. It matched the jazzy tune and was to remind us of record labels like RCA and artists like Ray Charles, Sarah Vaughan, Ella and Wellington. It was taking us to the old record shops without taking us to the old record shops.

[@veesmith9737]

I was brought to tears

[@Coyatheexplorer]

Danielle brooks was the star of the film for me ❤

[@vernonmoses2417]

Fantasia, Danielle, Taraji and Colman Domingo. they all deserve Oscars. Taraji can and sing. Taraji attend the Howard University.

[@Coyatheexplorer]

Hope they get them and Danielle attended Juilliard.

[@joycestevens8758]

They all were the star! Work together is called love ❤️

[@vitasporan566]

I think so too!

[@earljohnson8936]

Nobody touches the shadow of Whoopi. ❤

[@GatorGirl04]

Great review! I really enjoyed it and appreciate how it stands on its own in the canon of Color Purple works. I was hesitant at first but it turned out really terrific! It was a small moment but I was glad Tarajii's Shug didn't utter "You shol is ugly" and instead just gave the look. This version took a lot of risks and they paid off. Love when that happens! Thanks for posting!

[@joshuamcdowell9745]

The Broadway musical was a more accurate adaptation and is closer to the book than the 1985 adaptation. I read the book in the ninth grade and I like the book better than the original movie. The characters was more developed and have more complexity. The musical is one of my favorite Broadway musicals. I wish more songs from the musical was added. 13 songs was cut. Fantasia and Danielle Brooks are both getting nominations for this. They both did their roles on Broadway. Fantasia did it in 2007 to rave reviews for her performance and Danielle was in the 2015 revival. Danielle was nominated for an Tony.

[@asmrvoicebykarressyvette4345]

Out of all the scenes in comparison of the both. I liked the ending in the 2023. I felt they redefined MISTER role some. I liked that they came home to a family celebration. That made sense. Ms Sophia, that girl played the heck out the 2023 role. I love her in this role. She almost stole the show to me lol. Fantasia/Taraji was AWESOME... Period!!!

[@revonneharrison8644]

Danielle Brooks my favorite in this movie. I hate they took out Shug leaving Harpo juke joint singing God trying to tell you something. Outstanding cast and performance from each actor and actress

[@reneew.1100]

All THIS!!! ⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️

[@angeleyes3386]

I was disappointed about that as well. Danielle was that stand out star. Sophia herself is great character.

[@sharonpollitt1524]

Thanks!

[@justmyopinion84]

Thank you!

[@onlyalisaawilliams]

I’m looking forward to seeing the film, the first was excellent. I know some from our community will see any & everything as a hit piece on Black men if their not portrayed as a superhero/savior, or the greatest thing next to PB&J, and that way of thinking stifles stories & experiences in our community.. If other communities can tell their experiences good, or bad we must do the same .

[@paulray494]

got any other communities whose men get dragged (in some cases literally) the way FBA men in American popular culture ? where’s the plus side to balance out the negative ?

[@bierlichen1]

Since when are Black men in movies?

[@Stevejunior456]

The first movie separated our families even more than it was.

[@niax782]

@@paulray494Girl preach. Wakanda Forever 🙅🏽‍♀️

[@niax782]

@@paulray494_Be_ the change, little buddy. Be the change.

[@damondbarbee]

I don’t think it comes close to the original 1985 film. Also I think the supporting cast were more prevalent than the lead. The music was great but I just didn’t feel the pain or self conflict from Fantasia nor Taraji.

[@Nolaboy824]

Movie is definitely award winning. A Real powerful movie

[@veesmith9737]

Yes the production was chef's kiss

[@Westofthemoors]

I’ll pass

[@yolandalillard882]

I am not a musical movie fan and I don't get emotional at movies. I didn't cry but I definitely was moved by this film. I am going back a second time. I love how they told more into each character's background.

[@AfroAngola]

My familiarity with the Color Purple story goes in this order: _I watched the film when I was in elementary school. _ I first read the novel when I was in High school. _ I saw the revival Broadway musical starring Cynthia Erivo , Heather Headley, and Danielle Brooks _I watched the 2023 movie musical today. I liked the movie, but I didn't love it [like I thought I would). The visuals are great and most of the songs are good. Mister isn't a cartoonish villain and Harpo isn't one dimensional character. Danielle Brooks as Sophia has the best scenes in the entire film!! Fantasia and Taraji have good chemistry. However, there is something missing in this version of the story. A lot of the dramatic moments don't have the same powerful, emotional effects as the 1985 Steven Spielberg adaptation. I also wished some scenes were better edited. It would have helped out a lot with the transitions. I'll use the A+ to F grading system, and I give this film a solid B

[@ingridsavage5780]

This film is in no comparison anywhere close to the original. This film took out key Classic scenes, watered down the abuse, and changed events. The acting was filled with Amateurs, the Original Actors were phenomenal, and on a whole other level of acting, NO COMPARISON. 2023 Color Purple was...Umm.. (cute). The Original was EPIC!

[@d_roi8689]

Agreed! I left feeling like we had a cast of individuals trying to imitate an original cast of actors. The movie felt very unfinished. The Broadway production was much more exciting and lively.

[@Dahna_]

@ingridsavage5780 Agreed . They could have at least left in some of the iconic lines that we all remembered like "you sholl is ugly!" what happened to that? Whoopi said this was her first movie so technically she and Oprah were amateurs but you sure couldn't tell.

[@vitasporan566]

Love your reply! While there are aspects I did enjoy, the remake didn't hit the mark for me, either. The first one was, surely, a tough act to follow.

[@Ladeeluc7]

🎯🎯🎯🎯

[@wildgoosejohn8436]

PERFECT!

[@vernonmoses2417]

Fantasia, Danielle, Taraji and Colman Domingo. they all deserve Oscars. Taraji can act and sing. Taraji attend the Howard University. In College one of my Teacher ask the Class what movie did Family talk most about, my answer was The Color Purple. I'm from a mixed Family. Your Movie reviews was on point. The Music and dancing made the movie even better. I'm still stock she didn't get a Golden Globe Nomination.

[@brownsugerkiss]

I loved every minute! I love how they showed the terrible issues but did not linger on them.I dont typically like shows that show black trauma nor do I like musicals....A++++++++++++++

[@bluejay9638]

I feel this, especially on Sophia's jail arc. It was short but it got the message across and the way the mayors wife acted getting her out was disgusting but just so true to their time. I love how what brought her back wasn't some big display of love from family, but a woman calling her husband horse shit 💀 best part of the movie

[@docd2026]

This was such a fair review! As a black woman in 2023 I can say Celie’s story is not tremendously different from the black women I grew up with and even mimics part of my own story. It’s the reason why it resonates with so many women. I also resonated with Sophie’s irreverent spirit almost being broken. But this film transcends the first in its theme in reconciliation which Spielberg says is the signature to all the films he creates. However, having a black man at the helm of this film took reconciliation from being symbolic to literal for me. The way he celebrates black women’s resilience is unmatched. Violence unfortunately is a true and common theme in the Black community but so is redemption in all of its forms and he displayed that wonderfully through the character development of each of cast…Being Christian I likened the scene of Coleman Domingo waking up from the dirt and saying “I’ll do right” like Paul on Damascus road, and Sophie at the dinner table saying “Sophie is home nawh!” Like a resurgence of her strength like Samson. The spiritual displays cursing and blessing came through much stronger in the musical. I thought the intimate moment between Sug and her father was masterfully done. The “hell no” song is my new anthem 🤣🤣🤣 the range of emotions I felt with this film while still very heavy content, superseded the first for me which always left me feeling just heavy. Thank you for your review it was well done!

[@merrickbeaufort8048]

You don’t know nobody who grew up like Celie it is a completely fictional lesbian story. Not reality for black Americans

[@docd2026]

@@merrickbeaufort8048 actually i do please don't presume to speak on my behalf and art imitates life

[@merrickbeaufort8048]

@@docd2026 You don’t know anyone who had children with their Father then was sold off at 15 years old to be the wife of an abusive husband stop fucking lying 🤥. This story is a lie written by a man hating feminist this is not Black American history.

[@999KBC]

​@@docd2026stop it lady. If you know one or 2 then you are probably exaggerating. Yall love victimizing yourselves and demonizing black men. Stop the sob stories tell us what you did. Black men dont abuse black women like that. You lying on us. I've been hit my every single woman I've been with, that dont mean I'm gonna paint some crazy picture of women abusing men when it probably happens more then men doing it.

[@jazzepurp]

There are too many dysfunctional black families in America. And it’s is past on from one generation to the next generations, till someone wakes up and change there ways.

[@KnowledgeSeeker78491]

I'll have to watch it again, but the second one was no where near as emotional as the first one. I came home and watched the first one and cried immediately when Mister separated them... Not in the musical

[@kiwthebeauty]

The new adaptation of The Color Purple made some changes that toned down certain impactful moments from the original: 1. Nettie and Sophia's separation: In the original, Mister forcefully removed them by banging on their fingers, which had a stronger impact. 2. Sophia's encounter with Olivia: In the 1985 version, she sees her baby girl in the hands of a white woman. However, in the new version, Olivia is alone in a stroller or seat, with no white person near her. 3. Sophia's attack: In the original, she is surrounded by mostly white men who bully her after she defiantly says "Hell No" to a white woman. She is eventually knocked out and locked up. In the new version, she doesn't face a racist crowd. I just realized that the "Hell No" song in the new version pays homage to her iconic line to the white woman from the 1985 version. 4. Sophia & Mister Razor scene: In the 1985 version, Sophia contemplates slicing Mister's neck open with a shaving razor while, simultaneously, her son and daughter in Africa undergo a ritual where their faces are cut with a razor as part of their coming-of-age initiation. This powerful contrast between the fear in her children being cut by the razor and Celie's intense anticipation of killing Mister was an extreme intense moment in the original film. However, this scene is not included in the new version. Overall, the new adaptation has toned down some of the intense and traumatic scenes from the original to make it more digestible. The original film had powerful and dark tones, while the new version is more vibrant and filled with hope. It remains heartbreaking but also uplifting throughout the movie, which is what makes this new version special.

[@kaylao.3326]

I seen it tonight and absolutely loved it. Was not disappointed one bit

[@mzzzzzzday]

story is about women, love and community. sad, but a lot of women are treated horribly by men. And the fact that you hate seeing it, and it's hard to sit with....it's cause you have empathy. There is nothing wrong with stories that show the reality of the lives of women. I know it might suck because they are black, but BFFR, this is the reality of a lot of black women both today and back then. Black women have been treated like shit by all races since the beginning of this country.

[@rogercarter3039]

Saw the movie today and LOVED it. It is my favorite. I saw the original and both musicals and loved them all.

[@karenwells1650]

Ive seen the movie in 1985 and I just seen the new one yesterday on christmas day. The new one was good, but there were scenes that the cast of 1985 did it better. For example, the dinner scene b 6:36 efore Celie left with shugge avery, woopie nailed it much better than fantasia, and Margaret Avery nailed the part in trying to reunite with her dad, and Oprah there were some scenes that she did it better and the actress who played sophia.

[@niax782]

Agreed! There were some scenes I was disappointed in, and some that I was really happy with.

[@vitasporan566]

Yeah, the vibe of the original was, definitely, better for me. And I am glad you brought up the dinner scene. It did have more impact when Whoopie played the part. And when Shug reunited with her dad (1985's version), it made you cry. In the remake, it was too simply played. Shug didn't have to work hard for Dad's forgiveness the way she did in the original movie. In the original, Shug sang so hard as if she was saying, "Pa, please, please, please, forgive me!". And after she embraced him, and he embraced her, what a tug on your heartstrings.

[@kimbess7498]

Agreed. I’m going to see it a second time as well. O.G. movie and book. Oscars season, let’s go.

[@onesocialengineer]

Thank you for sharing your views. This is one of my favorite movies. I can’t wait to go see it tonight.

[@justmyopinion84]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@ReesesPrice]

The double toasted saying this is just a struggle movie which is seeing us justified slavery woke

[@loveaffect]

I strongly disliked it 🤷🏽‍♀️it didn’t do justice for the original . I wasn’t attached to NONE of the characters, they skimmed over a lot of the harder scenes that portayed so much emotion in the original . the theater was dying of laughter at scenes that were never meant to be funny . It added no depth except showing Celine deciding to sell pants . nothing was true to film . Even in the narrative . No one except Nettie and mister spoke very intelligently. EVERYBODY sounded like they were from 1995 . Had no struggle speaking , Celie could already read and write 😂

[@Yolie-jk7ng]

She sold pants in the movie,also. And it’s not supposed to do justice to the movie. It was an adaptation of the Broadway musical.

[@Ladeeluc7]

@@Yolie-jk7ngyes, any remake is to do justice to the original!! That is the point of a remake 😳

[@detroitman9309]

I saw the movie today, it was okay. I think women in general will enjoy it a lot more then men, because it will take women on an emotional roller coaster throughout the film. The best scene in the movie was the end when you see families, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives holding hands all on one Accord.

[@Donnydon1996]

I’m a whole grown ass man.. and I loved both the old and the new movie.. gender got nothing to do with it young fella

[@lenettranixon4683]

I said the same thing about the men may not gravitate to this 2023 version. Some of males I'm around still quote " you told Harpo to beat me" and just burst out laughing 😅

[@vitasporan566]

Totally agree. And I am a woman. My expectations for the film were higher, before I saw it. It wasn't a terrible movie, but there were times I thought I could go to sleep now (that disappointed me a little because I liked the original one a lot, and wanted this one to be really good). Since I knew about the ending, when Celie becomes strong, I didn't allow myself the pleasure of dozing off for a while.

[@vitasporan566]

Sorry to disagree, but gender is what the story was about. Both films put women in a positive, although ever the victim, light (except for the mayor's wife). But, the men were either weak, brutes, or just insignificant. In fact, Celie's children were from her step dad. And she, herself, fell in love with a woman. Not sure why she's written that way, but it appears that her character didn't have a good man in her life. Stepdad repeatedly raped her, then sold her off to another maniac. He, also, kept her, and her sister, from knowing that the business he ran was given to them by their parents (Mom and her real Dad, a good man not shown in the story. But you saw Mom twice). Then her husband turned into a decent person, only after a woman (Celie) cast a spell on him. So, I'd say, this movie is, without a doubt, about the female. Three other points: The lake house was made for Sophia (notice how the women showed up to finish the construction work the men started); When transformed into a juke joint, Celie said people will show up if Shug sings there. She did that on opening night, giving Harpo a big boost to his new business; Sophia got herself into hot water only after the mayor's wife insisted that she become her maid. I could think of other examples, but I don't want to overwhelm the comment section.

[@ShaneyBright]

I plant my flag on the 1985 film adaptation and Whoopi is my Celie, but your review has me leaning towards going to see this film.

[@istherenooneleft]

The original is more impactful to me

[@peters10456170]

I could never watch the original fully because of how tragic and dark it was. This movie gave the same message with less emotional drain

[@istherenooneleft]

@@peters10456170 i agree

[@kaylao.3326]

I hate the whole “it makes black men look bad” nonsense when it comes to this film. The film tells the story of how life was like for black women and girls living in the 19th century. It’s a movie about black women empowerment and it’s ashame how black men are making it about them when it really has nothing to do with them. Are we not supposed to tell stories of sexism and misogyny because it makes them look bad? These are our ancestors stories and they deserve to be told. Anyways, enjoyed your review!

[@spainman2020]

This is what is dangerous about movies like this. It is a completely fictitious story dreamed up by an anti black male feminist. There is no precedent to indicate that this represents the average life of a black woman back then. You blame black men for complaining about the movie and then turn around and act like this is true history, and this is the damage that movie like this does. "These are our ancestors stories" 🤦🏿

[@Ladeeluc7]

👏👏👏👏👏🎯🎯🎯🎯

[@Renee_nf094e]

I didn't love it but it was enjoyable. The casting was superb. Fantasia was phenomenal, but I wouldn't say she blew Whoopi out of the water. Imo they BOTH were phenomenal, but different. I'm hoping she gets an Oscar nomination. 🙏🏾

[@kathyrodriguez820]

I feel the same way. It was just okay to me but I enjoyed the singing. Fantasia was nominated. I hope she gets the Oscar! Her acceptance speech would be awesome.

[@ninaharden8134]

I saw the film on Christmas I was pleased everyone did a great job

[@traceyhicks2598]

I saw them all. I saw Fantasia on Broadway. But my favorite was the original movie version

[@demondbrooks568]

Cant top the raw emotions of the original.

[@rethablair6902]

This version of the color purple 💜 was a more thoroughly told story with no gaps or lose ends like the original had

[@blacksteelo5144]

Excellent Commentary

[@justmyopinion84]

Thank you!

[@DarrylsB]

I read the book before the 1985 movie. I have not seen the Broadway musical. Saw the movie Christmas Day. Appreciate the resilience and enduring love in this new film adaptation. Lots of the songs are showstoppers - there will justifiably be many people covering the songs for their own message and impact. Remember, spirituals originate from the heart and soul of lived experiences and traumas - and we are STILL HERE! The quilts are glorious and weave the heritage of the generations, the stories, the books, the plays and the movies. An analogy of scraps being shaped into works of art.

[@DaUnapologeticKoolBruhdah]

For me, it was just OK...I think the film makers took into account the criticism the film has gotten over the years by trying to redeem mister played by Colman just a little bit towards the end...Just my theory.

[@GodisLovetoo]

Showed he had a heart/change of heart after all!

[@WhatsBiggin]

He did the same exact things at the end of the original... The fact of the matter is, there were a great deal of men like Mister and Ol' Mister during those times. Now they would be podcast bros putting down black women just the same.

[@janeaaf]

That’s actually more in line with the actual book. In the book they expound more on mister trying to become a better person

[@squeaky82SP]

Mister did try to redeem himself in the original too

[@Nolaboy824]

​@@GodisLovetoohe was trying to get thar curse off of him that Celie put on him. She told him until u do right by me, everything u think of gon crumble. So he was trying to change because of that.

[@maxinejohnson2781]

Seen all three. The original one is my favorite.

[@charV2622]

I saw the original. I personally prefer the original. I'm not big on musicals. Reason why I've only seen the original lol

[@veesmith9737]

The book is written that way

[@angeleyes3386]

I advise everyone to read the book. They can appreciate both movies better if they do so.

[@KP82457]

I just got home from seeing it and I was very pleased. I had my doubts at first but they really did a great job

[@GodisLovetoo]

It was pretty good; a tearjerker for me. I really got into it after Shug came….

[@californiarocks4]

I love how you described the beach scene! As always great review. I appreciate your thoughts. I am going to wait a couple weeks before I go see it. Glad to hear that you overall enjoyed it.

[@jacquelineking4654]

I know everyone is talking about Fantasia, Taraji, Danielle and other females in the movie. I didn't know Tamela Mann, Deon Cole, Whoopi Goldberg were in the movie. Deon's voice sounded so different in the movie compared to being on Blackish and watching his comedy standup. Deon Cole did a great job! (yeah I'm a huge DC fan!) Anyway, the movie was good and it will make you emotional at the end just like the 1985 version. If you haven't read the book, you need to. You'll see Shug and Celie's relationship was more than both of the movie versions portray.......

[@tdperrychatham]

Seen the classic and orginial "The Color Purple" 1985 voice on VHS (age 45). I am scheduled to see the 2023 version on 12/27.

[@raspberrysoda2277]

Just left the theater and i was disappointed. The 2023 movie didn’t make me feel anything less than empty. Felt like the movie lacked something and it felt rushed. I probably wouldn’t watch it again if it were free.

[@WaltBConnection]

Love you reviews sir!!

[@tierraweatherspoon3419]

Loved the movie🥰. The cinematography was everything! When Mister watched his crop burn and you can see the fire’s reflection on his eyes and skin was awesome! The dancing scenes were tight and together baby! They didn’t miss a beat. I still have PTSD from the first film because the abuse/male dictatorship/race relations of the time is disturbing and triggering for me in the book and all adaptations. But aside from all that its still a good story and this particular film and acting was good regardless of the storyline and content.

[@Racism-n3j]

People over looked that Shug Avery abused Ms celie as well. MS celie had three abusers

[@josephellis6601]

Just watch the movie. Loved it.

[@shaestewart5318]

The pacing wasn't the best, and the amount of songs left a small window for the movie to breathe. Almost after 3-5 mins of dialogue a new song would start. I just wish we could've enjoyed the casts wonderful acting a little bit longer.

[@711g]

Everyone did a great job! Very enjoyable. Awards are on the way👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@dogtrainer4645]

Saw this Sunday night and I loved it! I'm not a fan of musicals and wasn't sure I wanted to see a renake. I'm glad I saw it! 👏🏼

[@donnieiforrest1733]

The Camera just loves to peek at the silent Cool of Jon Batiste

[@terrancemoore496]

You know Ms. Danielle Brooks also played in Orange is the New Black, and Lifetime movie called Mahalia based on Mahalia Jackson. The girl can blow!

[@kayabe856]

I used to think the color purple was “a black movie” but anyone from any culture can relate to overcoming hardship, Questioning the existence of god and having nothing but hope to cling onto. I thought it was beautiful. Every part was played exceptionally well. I hope it gets the highest awards.

[@DaFilmakerDrew]

Read the book, Seen the 85 movie, saw the original play in broadway, saw the revival on broadway. All are different, all are well done. These are Not remakes of each other and should not even be compared to each other. That would be like a parent trying to decide which child if there favorite. I have a film degree and I have a musical theater degree. This new version SINGS!!!!!!! Fantasia is magnificent. Chefs kiss to her. The musical revival on the stage is probably the best musical adaptations of a source material book to be put on stage. The book itself, if you have read it, will be with you forever after you go from cover to cover.

[@afrikanb]

I agree with you. I really dislike musicals but I went because a good friend asked me. I LOVED IT!! It wasn't too much singing and I really enjoyed the choreography. Fantasia acted her face off.I also liked how they lightened it up a little with the comedic twist

[@keymo9480]

Out of all of them the 1985 one is my favorite.

[@LittleMissSunshine721]

I saw the movie yesterday and I gave it a solid B-. The original Color Purple is just so classic! I never understood the “negative Black male portrayal” that some people said was conveyed. It was always a top ten fave of mine since I was a kid. I don’t like musicals much (except for The Wiz). A couple of the music scenes could’ve been cut (the record player scene, the dance scene with Shug & Celie, and the scene with Celie dancing in those sparkle pants, lol). The “Uh-Huh” Harpo scene gave a bit of homage to fraternity step culture to me, which I thought was pretty cool. Danielle Brookes, Fantasia, and Phylicia Pearl Mpasi, who played young Celie, were phenomenal. The ending kinda gave Wakanda forever, I can’t explain it. 😂Overall, I would suggest anyone that has seen the original to go out and support the film! The acting was pretty solid, and the costumes were Oscar worthy. 📽️🎞️🍿

[@lenettranixon4683]

I didn't like the showing more of the romantic scene with Celie and Shug but I've always felt we didn't need love scenes in action movies. I liked Sophia as well. The male dancing did remind me of a Greek show as well. The Sophia part shocked me in the first movie because it reminded me of the stories my family told me how the police beat my grandmother and left her to die in her jail cell. I rate the 2023 as decent. I still get chills when I hear God is trying to tell you something from the 1985 version.

[@luvleroze123]

I saw the movie on Christmas day. The movie was okay. I personally stir away from musical. This is only my personal input, I would have enjoyed it better if it was made as a movie and kept some of the musical parts out. There were too many musical parts for me. Everyone did a great job, but Danielle Brooks (Sofia) she was awesome.

[@MattaBinElba]

OMG…she stole the show. She nailed Ms Sophia and she deserves all her flowers. If she and Taraji don’t win Awards for this….something is wrong in Hollywood

[@joanvenice503]

It was okay. I prefer the original movie and the original stage play.

[@natayleegivens1046]

When the trailer came out I was on the fence, because nowadays it seems like people are making remakes or musicals of the classics and sometimes it's unnecessary and we need something new. But with all that being said after watching the interviews and seeing how Fantasia said that the movie brings healing I went ahead and bought my ticket watch the movie and I fell in love all over again it was beautiful. With the book and the original movie I really enjoyed this movie, the music and the dancing was amazing

[@yvettecampbell655]

This film was magnificent! Art is a reflection of life .. I was emotionally paralyzed and walked out of the theater changed for life .. the artistry, cinematography was magical and absolutely brilliant.. thank you for this historic work of art and a beautiful Christmas gift to myself from my community.. ❤

[@terrancemoore496]

Wow! I seen other reviews, but you the only one that give Fantasia mad props! Good on you!

[@nothx512]

The Original is the BEST...this is just a "Reboot" and will "STAY" in the category just like all the other reboots...but its better than some reboots that I will give it credit to achieving.

[@vivalasherri]

WOW. Your review was soo super awesome, now I really want to see this movie. Thank you! 🤗

[@romonabutler9880]

That’s it….. I’m subscribing. Just to hear your intellectual overview sold me. I’ll be sticking around

[@ivawilson8229]

In my opinion Fantasia out shined Taraji and I also liked the actress that played Sophia❤️❤️💯💯

[@markeshiawatson4869]

They complimented each other. One stronger in singing and the other stronger in acting. I was impressed how they both stepped up in each aspect.

[@melyme1409]

@@markeshiawatson4869me too

[@joycestevens8758]

All beautiful black women done a phenomenal job; theirs no competition in this movie. We need to as African Americans people to stop with the negative vibes to try to make out a competition to have black women to compete against one another. Tarija, taking up for her black queen’s not against them. Keep positive, stay real, it is time to work together, I believe we’ll shine and rise together stronger; it’s called love ❤️ people

[@drtroyturner7464]

The casting was so good that before I knew that Barino was referring to Fantasia as I went in cold on purpose, the young gal playing her as a youngster sang in a style that was giving me Fantasia vibes. It tied together nicely.

[@msvonmichelle]

I wasn't expecting it to be the exact same scenes or the exact same acting, however, I was disappointed that some of the original scenes were not reenacted. It was a good movie, but I'm sorry it was not nearly as good as the original. I don't want to say too much as the movie is so fresh and a lot of people haven't seen it. Great cast, some great acting, some good scenes, not my new favorite.

[@Ladeeluc7]

I didn’t know it was a musical initially. Singing was about every 5 minutes and that took away a lot from serious scenes! Many key scenes that were in the Original was NOT in the remake. The movie seemed rushed and the emotional elements were not present. I wanted to like it so badly because I try to support Black Entertainers, but I did not like the newer version!

[@ricileigh88]

I read the book and saw the original film. I wasn't going to see the musical version, but i might after watching your review.

[@itzjdub282]

I was extremely disappointed

[@justmyopinion84]

Ok

[@essieweekly9010]

The 1985 version is one of my favorite movies ❤

[@jimkellysafro]

Great review. I can’t wait to watch this film. Happy holidays

[@justmyopinion84]

Thanks & Happy holidays!

[@terrancemoore496]

The point you stated is you can looked at this movie in a negative aspects, but the actor and producers presented alot of joy.

[@vitasporan566]

Oops! Gotta' make a correction. The director is Blitz Bazawule, not Lee Daniels.

[@jacalynjohnson4656]

I’ve only seen the 1985 film version…but is so excited to see the 2023 version soon!

[@greghaye]

Nope 👎🏿

[@arthure.andrews8978]

Original is way better than the musical own No one cant touched whoppi goldberg i would go see it but i pass im sorry no offense But its great for some people truly love it