Opened: December 25, 2023

Directed by: Blitz Bazawule

Starring: Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, H.E.R., Phylicia Pearl Mpasi, Halle Bailey, Ciara, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Jon Batiste, Louis Gossett Jr., David Alan Grier, Deon Cole, Tamela Mann, Elizabeth Marvel, Stephen Hill & Whoopi Goldberg

By adapting the Broadway musical into a film, The Color Purple reinvents itself taking new inspiration from the source novel and 1985 film.

Celie (Fantasia Barrino) is separated her from her sister Nettie (Halle Bailey) and abused by her husband (Colman Domingo). She finds strength in friends Shug Avery (Taraji P. Henson) and Sofia (Danielle Brooks) as she starts to come into her own.

This is a bold adaptation of the classic story where you feel the joy and strength in these female characters as they’re put through many tests. The Broadway music receives new arrangements, and the choreography is brilliantly woven into the story.

Barrino is a powerhouse performer with incredible range that shows Celie’s growth. The supporting cast is a force to be reckoned with, but Brooks’ recreation of her Broadway role stands strongly.

Final say: They’re here. ★★★★★