Whitney Houston’s legacy as “The Voice” remains unparalleled, and the biopic Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody serves as a powerful reminder of her extraordinary talent. While acknowledging the tragic elements of her life, the film rightly prioritizes the music that cemented her status as a global icon, ensuring audiences leave theaters humming her timeless hits. This cinematic journey, much like Whitney’s career trajectory, moves from gospel roots to R&B superstardom, capturing the essence of a Jersey girl who conquered the world with her voice.
The film wisely centers Naomi Ackie’s portrayal of Whitney. Initially, concerns about lip-synching might arise given Houston’s vocal prowess. However, Ackie’s performance transcends mere imitation. Her lip-synching is impeccable, creating a seamless illusion that allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in Houston’s musical performances. Ackie embodies Whitney, not just in appearance but in spirit, delivering a stunning interpretation of the pop princess who became a queen. This dedication to performance authenticity immediately wins over any skepticism, drawing the audience into Whitney’s world from the first note.
Alt text: Whitney Houston electrifies the stage in a scene from “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody”, showcasing her iconic stage presence.
The narrative efficiently charts Whitney’s rapid ascent to fame after her discovery at Sweetwater’s. Stanley Tucci’s portrayal of Clive Davis, Arista Records president, is a masterclass in urbane guidance. Davis is depicted as respectful of Whitney’s artistic inclinations, yet brilliantly perceptive in selecting songs that would catapult her to superstardom. Their collaboration is presented as a key factor in Whitney’s early success, highlighting the importance of mentorship in navigating the complexities of the music industry.
A poignant moment arrives with Whitney’s rendition of “Home” on The Merv Griffin Show. This performance, beautifully staged by director Kasi Lemmons, subtly introduces a recurring theme: Whitney’s yearning for a stable home life, a stark contrast to the tumultuous relationship with Bobby Brown (played by Ashton Sanders). This longing for normalcy amidst extraordinary fame becomes a heartbreaking undercurrent throughout the film, adding depth to her public persona.
Alt text: Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown share a complex moment in “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” hinting at the personal struggles behind the public image.
The biopic acknowledges Whitney’s well-documented struggles, from the “America’s Sweetheart” image she rejected to the battles with addiction that mirrored those of other artists like Winehouse and Spears. Her unconventional relationship with Robyn Crawford (Nafessa Williams) is also depicted, hinting at its complexities and potential sources of personal conflict. While the film touches upon these darker aspects, it consciously avoids dwelling on graphic depictions of drug use or the more abusive elements of her relationship with Bobby Brown, possibly due to legal considerations or a desire to maintain focus on her musical legacy.
Some critics might argue that Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody softens the harsher realities of her life. While this may be true, the film’s strength lies in its unwavering celebration of Whitney Houston’s musical genius. The movie shines brightest when showcasing her performances, featuring extended sequences of full songs in her actual voice. This emphasis on her music provides the film’s emotional core and ultimately becomes its most compelling aspect. For fans of Whitney Houston and her incredible vocal gift, this biopic offers a joyous and moving experience, reminding us why she remains one of the greatest voices of all time.
Alt text: Naomi Ackie as Whitney Houston delivers a vibrant performance of “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” in the biopic, capturing the energy of the iconic hit.
Ultimately, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody is a testament to her enduring artistry. It may not delve deeply into every shadow of her life, but it brilliantly illuminates the light of her talent. The film encourages audiences to remember Whitney Houston not for her tragedies, but for the voice that continues to resonate and inspire. For those seeking a cinematic celebration of an extraordinary musical legacy, this biopic is a must-see.
