RESPECT (Theatrical Release USA 2021)

 Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.5|5.0 Starsìììì 

Respect—very good film—accesses the talents of Jennifer Hudson to tell the Aretha Franklin story. Forrest Whitaker plays the part of Aretha’s father and serves as the perfect casting choice for this character. The story flows well and paces well largely due to a very well written script that catches the spirit of the times as well as the culture of the times. The movie more than earns its watch.

 Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline 

The Aretha Franklin story from youth to seasoned citizen. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director Liest Tommy for directing effort. Thank you to Producers Harvey Mason, Jr., Scott Bernstein, Jonathan Glickman, and Stacey Sher for making the film possible. Characters/cast include: Aretha Franklin (Jennifer Hudson), Young Aretha (Skye Dakota Turner), C.L. Franklin (Forest Whitaker), Ted White (Marlon Wayans), Barbara Siggers Franklin (Audra McDonald), Jerry Wexler (Marc Maron), Ken Cunningham (Albert Jones), Cecil Franklin (Leroy McClain), James Cleveland (Tituss Burgess), Emma Franklin (Saycon Sengbloh), Carolyn Franklin (Hailey Kilgore), John Hammond (Tate Donovan), Dinah Washington (Mary Blige), and Sam Cooke (Kevin Hair). 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. Terrific story with unique insights into successful music careers.

Video Critique Available Here:

 

Ben Meyers