Sparkle
Director: Salim Akil
Actors: Jordin Sparks, Carmen Ejogo, Whitney Houston
PlotSet in the late 1960s in Detroit, the film follows the journey of three sisters, Sparkle, Sister, and Dee, who dream of becoming famous singers. Raised in a strict household by their deeply religious mother, the girls find an escape in their love for music. Sparkle, the youngest sister, is a talented songwriter who begins to write songs for the trio to perform. Sister, the eldest, has the charisma and confidence to lead the group on stage, while middle sister Dee provides steady support. Together, they enter and win a local talent show, which becomes a stepping stone for their ambitions. However, the road to fame is filled with challenges as the sisters navigate the pressures of the music industry, personal troubles, and family expectations.
As the group gains popularity, they face obstacles that threaten to tear them apart. Sister’s involvement with an abusive manager starts affecting both her personal life and the group's dynamics. Sparkle’s growing romantic interest in the group's manager further complicates matters, creating tension within the family. Their mother's disapproval adds an emotional weight to their journey, as she fears the dangers associated with the entertainment world. The intertwined struggles of ambition, love, and family loyalty create a complex narrative that tests the bond between the sisters. Ultimately, their perseverance and passion for music lead to critical turning points that shape their future both individually and as a group.
Writers: Mara Brock Akil, Joel Schumacher, Howard Rosenman
Release Date: 17 Aug 2012
Runtime: 116 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Sparkle offers dazzling video and audio with strong performances, but struggles with clichéd scripting and an uneven tone; good rental material with solid extras.
Read our review of Sparkle Blu-ray to find out more