On Tuesday, January 30, during MIDEM in Cannes, there was an advance presentation of DREAMGIRLS in the Grand Auditorium of the Palais des Festivals. This film recounts the story of Diana Ross and her group, The Supremes, who captivated America in the 60s. Nominated at the 2007 Golden Globes and Oscars, it has already won the award for best supporting role for Eddie Murphy and Jennifer Hudson at the BAFTA and the aforementioned ceremony.
Right from the start, the tone is set. The film will be lively, engaging, and musical. The basic story is very simple.
A group of three young women, the Dreamettes, composed of Deena (Beyoncé Knowles), Effy (Jennifer Hudson) and Lorrell (Anika Noni Rose) participate in a contest. Their arrival is quickly noticed by Curtis Taylor, Jr. (Jamie Foxx) who wants to integrate them into the backing vocals for James “Thunder” Early (Eddie Murphy).
Although the concerts go rather well, reality catches up with them with the start of the Black revolt in the United States. Insecure and determined to launch their own careers, the Dreamettes become the Dreamgirls and set fire to the stages of the country. However, an incident will upheave their journey and change them forever…
Despite some slight inconsistencies, this musical is perfectly performed with Jamie Foxx at the top of his art. This is an opportunity to discover Jennifer Hudson, who was a finalist on “American Idol” (the American equivalent of “La nouvelle star [The New Star]”). The 26-year-old woman shows all her talent as a singer and actress. She beautifully portrays her role as a black diva who truly expresses herself only through music. Some songs give goosebumps, her voice is magnificent. She seems destined for a great future as she has won two awards for best supporting actress at the Golden Globes and the BAFTAs.
For their part, Eddie Murphy and Beyoncé Knowles are less in sight although the former was awarded at the Golden Globes as Best Supporting Male and by the American actors union.
However, a skillful ensemble of actors who complement each other perfectly and provide a melody to the film that was unexpected. It is a highly anticipated success that has already found its audience in the United States and is expected to do the same in France.
The answer will come on February 28th for the film’s release.
Some pictures and videos at:
https://www.dreamgirls-lefilm.fr/
