Never too sad to sing about it
One of the traps that popular culture sets out is a belief that we recognize “the story” behind the plot of the movie or program or play or book or whatever. Take it from me; that’s just proof that the illusion is working as it should.
Tonight we watched Dreamgirls (as the rental runs out tomorrow at suppertime). Didn’t even check the TV guide. We just put the DVD device in gear and sat back. I’d heard the soundtrack before, and I’d watched the various clips that have been available during different award shows. Hey, I’d even heard the “big song” performed by the first winner of America’s Got Talent. Trivia question: how old was the winner?
Back to the chase. This movie rocks! OK, it RnB’s or it discos or it blues or something. Maybe it’s the showtunes. I’m a sucker for a good musical, even though my throat was too sore to sing along. I came away from the best seat in the theatre a satisfied customer. Even the dog was spellbound. I don’t know what the girls will do next, but Eddie Murphy proves, yet again, that his talent has few boundaries.
If you haven’t watched this one, take it as an overview of a part of the musical scene during the 60’s. Therein lies the trap. It’s hard to avoid the obvious parallel to the history of the Supremes. Remember that two lines seen from the correct angle may appear to be parallel, but are not. An optical illusion. This movie plays a historical illusion. Diana Ross is still bigger than life.
I believe that this one is probably better in movie format than on stage, if only because the Great Wall of China wouldn’t fit well. That’s my take.
