The Reel Review
The Reelness’ #1 movie of all time. This film, based on the 1982 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, stars Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover and Margaret Avery in this heart wrenching portrait of an African-American woman surviving trials, tribulations and triumphs in early 1900s rural Georgia.
Steven Spielberg directs this emotion-packed story of young Celie (Goldberg), who endures an early lifetime of abuse – first by her father, and later her husband, is separated from his sister during childhood, and forced to give up her newborn infant moments after giving birth. It’s message, of enduring hope, is underscored by iconic acting performances, gorgeous visuals and an incredibly moving musical score.
The Color Purple is an emotional roller coaster about injustice and redemption that vividly captures the essence of the American South in that era. It is a masterpiece.
REEL FACTS
• In the dinner scene where Celie finally confronts her abusive husband, Oprah Winfrey ad-libbed the part about Sofia appreciating the kindness Celie showed her in helping her shop for Miss Millie. After shooting the scene, Whoopi Goldberg hugged Oprah and congratulated her on becoming an actress, allegedly prompting Winfrey to remark, “What do you know? This is your first movie too.”
• The Color Purple was nominated for 11 Oscars, winning none. It shares the record of the most Oscar nominations with no wins with the 1977 ballet drama The Turning Point, starring Shirley MacLaine and Anne Bancroft.
• Steven Spielberg cast Margaret Avery as Shug Avery after Tina Turner, Chaka Khan, Lola Falana, Phyllis Hyman and Diana Ross all turned down the role. Oprah Winfrey won the role of Sofia after Nell Carter and Jennifer Holiday turned down the role.
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