The Color Purple (2023) is packed with powerhouse performances and a bright and fresh take on a classic, well known, story.
The Color Purple came out in 1985 and then was developed into a popular Broadway musical, which tells the same story but, as expected, has a lot more large musical numbers. It has now been reimagined for the big screen again. The Color Purple (2023) is packed to the brim with powerhouse performances and an ensemble cast that does not take lightly to the legacy they are there to uphold.
This film spans several decades of heartache and abuse, as well as love and resilience. It follow Celie (Fantasia Barrino) through a life of devastation, but also hope and faith. Watching what she goes through, it is impossible not to feel for her. Barrino does a fantastic job, making the iconic role that Whoopi Goldberg first played her own.
Another standout in 2023’s The Color Purple is Coleman Domingo. He takes on the role of Mister, aka Albert, and is a force to be reckoned with on screen. He is often scary, and it becomes quite easy to hate him at times because of how he treats Celie and Nettie. Even though most viewers know the story well, it doesn’t make it any less irritating.
While the entire ensemble cast brings their A-game, it is Danielle Brooks who should be applauded for what she does as Sofia. The incredible Oprah Winfrey first played this character, but Danielle brings something powerful and exciting to the role. She not only deserves all the nominations, she deserves all the awards as well. She makes this character truly unforgettable, absolutely demanding attention whenever she is on the screen.
Brooks has portrayed Sofia on stage as well, and it is very apparent that she is comfortable in her skin. She must know her well by now, after spending so much time with her. Brooks is an absolute joy to watch in The Color Purple, no matter if she is front and center or not.
One might question, did we need another version of The Color Purple so soon? Many films are being remade and reimagined, but the 1985 version of this film is so iconic and well known that was it really necessary to offer up another version? The initial response, and the easy one, is no. There was no need to deliver another version of this movie.
That being said, The Color Purple 2023 is an adaptation of the stage play, the Broadway musical. Therefore is has big and vibrant musical numbers and a few changes to the story, although nothing too major. Herein lies the biggest, and only real, issue. This is a heavy movie, with serious subject matter. There is heartbreaking abuse and awful occurrences, yet, at the same time, many of the musical numbers are bright, vibrant, and upbeat.
Honestly, this feels a bit strange and out of place considering what is happening to Celie in the movie. However, when you think about the fact that this movie showcases hope and faith. It is here to teach people that no matter how awful things get, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. When you think about it from that aspect, The Color Purple 2023 works on multiple levels, and the upbeat songs don’t seem so out of place.
With an ending that will have you in tears, even if you know the story like the back of your hand, this new ensemble cast solidifies their place in The Color Purple universe, proudly stating they are here, and they have earned their spot in entertainment history.
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About The Color Purple
Warner Bros. Pictures invites you to experience the extraordinary sisterhood of three women who share one unbreakable bond in “The Color Purple.” This bold new take on the beloved classic is directed by Blitz Bazawule, a multi-medium artist whose breakout first feature is the highly acclaimed “The Burial of Kojo.” The film’s all-star producers are Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg, Scott Sanders and Quincy Jones.
The Color Purple hits theaters on Christmas Day, December 25th.
Tessa Smith is a Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer-approved Film and TV Critic. On Camera personality and TV / Film Critic with 10+ years of experience in video editing, writing, editing, moderating, and hosting.