Dreamgirls

This movie is a thinly disguised biography of the Supremes, Motown’s premier “girl group” of the 70’s and 80’s. With a star-studded cast, including Jamie Foxx and Beyoncé Knowles, it is the story of a trio of women with stars in their eyes. Just like the original Supremes, they get taken under the wing of someone who will get them recorded, will get them “gigs” in a variety of venues, and basically make them stars. In return, he expects their loyalty and he expects them to follow his direction to the letter.

Effie (much like Florence Ballard in the real Supremes) probably has the best voice in the group, but she’s eventually shuttled to the side to sing only background when another member of the group – one who clearly can’t sing as well as she can – but is prettier – wins the heart of the group’s manager.

This movie gives the viewer a glimpse into the seedier part of show business. It shows that talent does not necessarily guarantee fair treatment, and the best cream does not necessarily always rise to the top. Sometimes there are other ways to get there, and for the person willing to dabble in those methods, the chances could actually be better for fame and fortune even when true talent is sometimes lacking.

I must admit that I liked this film, but probably only because of the great music. I am a fan of Classic Motown and this film gave me some insight into just why Florence Ballard never got the chance to make more of a mark with the group’s fans, and eventually was pushed out entirely.