The Moving Picture

The audience rose to its feet loudly applauding the big, booming voice that thundered a passionate rendition of “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going” at a mid-afternoon, midweek showing of “Dreamgirls” at the Fairfield Edward Theater. If such an overt show of admiration is any indication, then Jennifer Hudson is a shoe in for the Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes.
Hudson’s commanding voice was equally matched by her commanding performance. In every scene she was in of the Broadway musical hit turned big screen blockbuster she stole the show. She is likely to steal the show on Oscar night, as well. Though she faces some stiff competition, it would be a surprise to see anyone rob this talented young actress/singer of the coveted statue.
Hudson’s star was not the only one to shine brightly in “Dreamgirls.” Singer turned actress Beyonce Knowles’ performance also earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. However, it was not much of a stretch for her to play the beautiful, sweet singer and big awards normally go to those who reach big. But her presentation of “Listen,” written specifically for the big screen, was also worthy of a standing ovation and will likely earn the Golden Globe for Best Original Song.
Another performance by an unlikely candidate also earned critical recognition. Comedic actor Eddie Murphy earned his first Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Murphy was brilliant in his best role yet as James “Thunder” Early, a soul singer whose time has come and gone. He faces some stiff competition, but its Murphy’s time and he hit the right role to ear himself the coveted Golden Globe.
The film boasted other performances from veteran acting stars, including Danny Glover as Marty Madison, the aging manager of Early and Jamie Foxx as Curtis Taylor Jr., the manager of Dreamettes who ultimately loses his soul along the path to musical success. They completed the all-star cast and without their support the film would not have been the stunning presentation it was.
Overall, the story of a trio of black female soul singers who crossed over to the pop charts in the 1960s is also likely to earn the top prize Best Musical or Comedy on Golden Globe night. This spectacular visual and auditory extravaganza achieved the heights of cinematic perfection. It is entertaining yet thoughtful, examining race relations, musical trends, the meaning of family and the price of fame and success. There is never a dull moment and the entire film is chock full of outstanding performances.
“Dreamgirls” is worthy of an Oscar nod for Best Picture and it would not be a surprise if the Academy gave it the recognition it deserves. This musical outdid recent big screen award winners, such as “Chicago” and “Moulin Rouge.” Director Bill Condon (directed “Kinsey” and “Gods and Monsters,” wrote the screenplay for “Chicago” as well as “Dreamgirls”) may have a couple of more notches to add to his belt after the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards.