Biopics, at their best, offer a revealing glimpse behind the celebrity façade, uncovering aspects of a well-known figure that remain hidden from the public eye. Audiences anticipate a journey beyond the highlight reel, seeking a deeper understanding of the person behind the icon. However, the Whitney Houston biopic, “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” unfortunately, misses several beats in achieving this insightful portrayal.
Instead of delving into the uncharted territories of Whitney Houston’s complex life, the film dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to recreating her famous performances in their entirety. While these renditions showcase Houston’s undeniable talent, they offer little new to viewers who can readily access the original performances elsewhere. This approach feels like a missed opportunity to explore the less documented facets of her journey, a common pitfall in music biopics that often prioritize spectacle over substance.
Furthermore, “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody” only scratches the surface of Whitney Houston’s personal struggles. The tumultuous relationship with Bobby Brown, marked by domestic issues and substance abuse, is noticeably toned down. Her deeply significant bond with Robyn Crawford, considered by many to be a crucial aspect of her life, is depicted as fleeting moments rather than a central relationship. Even Clive Davis, while portrayed with warmth and familial affection (unsurprising given his executive producer role in the film), escapes critical examination. The film avoids exploring the complexities of his influence, particularly accusations of molding Houston into a commercially palatable image, potentially at the expense of her artistic authenticity.
It becomes apparent that even posthumously, external forces seem to shape Whitney Houston’s narrative. This control inadvertently prevents “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody” from fully exploring the intricacies, vulnerabilities, and internal conflicts that defined this extraordinary artist. Undoubtedly, Whitney Houston possessed a once-in-a-generation vocal gift.
Yet, the biopic remains content with celebrating her talent superficially, neglecting to probe the depths of her emotional landscape. For those seeking a more profound understanding of Whitney Houston’s life, motivations, and the factors contributing to her tragic trajectory, the Kevin MacDonald documentary offers a more compelling alternative. This documentary delves deeper into her inner turmoil and provides a more comprehensive perspective on both her musical contributions and the personal challenges she faced, offering a more nuanced portrait than “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody” ultimately delivers.
