 Dreamworks // Buy from Amazon.comWith show-stopping performances by a star-studded cast, DREAMGIRLS is the amazing story of three female singers who learn that anything is possible when you hold on to your dreams. Grammy winner Beyoncé Knowles (Deena), Academy Award® winner (2004 Best Actor, Ray), Jamie Foxx (Curtis) and Golden Globe winner Eddie Murphy (James "Thunder" Early) shine in unforgettable roles that display their matchless talents. And, Jennifer Hudson (Effie) is a revelation in the breakthrough performance that earned her the 2007 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Based on the Tony Award®-winning Broadway hit and directed by Academy Award winner (1998 Best Adapted Screenplay, Gods and Monsters) Bill Condon (screenwriter of Chicago), the Oscar-winning DREAMGIRLS is "a triumph" (Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times) of movie entertainment that will dazzle you again and again. While not the typical fare reviewed here at the esteemed DVDschlock.com, part of my penance to my darling wife for starting such an endeavor (that takes me away from her & the yearlings for several hours per week) is that when we have the opportunity to receive & review films that she has an interest in, I have to request, and we have to watch, together. It's a beautiful thing - I'll take 10 "Dreamgirls" if it means I get to watch such gems as "Jason of Star Command" or "Circle of Iron" (both coming soon!) As it turns out, this movie wasn't half-bad - while I would never voluntarily sit down to watch a musical on my own, I found myself drawn into the story and characters of this well-crafted film rather quickly, and before I realized it I was cheering them on, feeling their pain, bemoaning their unfortunate circumstances, etc., ad nauseum. There's no doubt in my mind that both Hudson & Murphy deserved their Oscar nominations, and I also think the Director should have gotten a nod as well (maybe he did?), since this film is really well-made and fantastically put together. Gorgeous cinematography, unbelievable lighting, and acting performances that rarely show up in such an ensemble production. Color me surprised, but I kinda liked this one, and don't mind saying as much. Now, back to the schlock before I'm too far gone... Video A truly gorgeous anamorphic widescreen transfer that is breathtaking from start to finish. Audio Given that this is a movie about singing and singers, it's no surprise that the Dolby 5.1 surround mix is solid & immersive throughout. Extras Closing Thoughts Really enjoyable musical + entire bonus disc of extras = first-rate special edition release for a first-rate movie Labels: review |
