Simply known to the World as “The Voice,” the admiration and respect for the legendary Whitney Houston is stronger today, more than ever. There is no debate to her greatness; however, since her untimely death, the narrative has led down many rabbit holes. In 2015, Lifetime films released Whitney, a Angela Bassett produced television movie which provided context on the icon’s life in a limited scope.
In 2022, it was announced that NAACP Image Award winner Kasi Lemmons was in post production of a biopic about the life of Whitney Houston titled: I Wanna Dance with Somebody. Fresh off of directing the popular Netflix series Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker in 2020, Kasi Lemmons found herself in the unique position of covering the life of Whitney Houston in a comprehensive manner. While Whitney Houston was revered as a Super Star, the troubles and obstacles that affect everyday people were prevalent in the star’s life. From Whitney’s early childhood to her death that rocked the nation with speculation and controversy, Kasi Lemmons goes deep into the particulars of events and conversations never revealed before.
I Wanna Dance With Somebody is an in depth look into the struggles with stardom and addiction. Whitney Houston is played by Naomi Ackie who is known from her role in the film, Star Wars: The Rise of Luke Skywalker. Naomi Ackie had a tremendous challenge of reenacting one of the most recognizable performers of the past 40 years. Ackie does a phenomenal job of really feeling the role as the film narrates some of Houston’s most iconic moments in the film. As with any biopic, some may argue on milestones of emphasis; however, the writer and screenplay director Anthony McCarten tried desperately to mend the timeline together perfectly while giving special attention to key moments.
The biopic begins with Whitney’s gospel roots in the church under the direction of her mother Cissy Houston, played by Tamara Tunie. The film then fast forwards to Whitney Houston being signed by Clive Davis, who is played by Stanley Tucci. From there, the storyboard of the film launches into full throttle. The all-star cast includes Ashton Sanders, Nafessa Williams, Clarke Peters, Thembinkosi Masuku in addition to Naomi Ackie and Stanley Tucci who are the focal points throughout the film.
Of Course, the elephant in the room that everyone is intrigued about is her turbulent relationship and marriage to r&b superstar Bobby Brown. Brown is played by Ashton Sanders who for the most part, steps directly into character with precision. The Sony Pictures Releasing film is produced by Jeff Kalligheri, Denis O’Sullivan, Pat Houston, Anthony McCarten, Clive Davis, Larry Mestel, Matt Jackson, Molly Smith, Thad Luckinbill, Trent Luckinbill, Matt Jackson, Christina Papagjika and Matthew Salloway. In my personal opinion, the runtime of 2 hours and 15 minutes should have been extended to go further in depth on some key points of the film. Overall, Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody, hit its mark; however, I believe it’s impossible to cover Whitney’s life in one film.
The Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody, biopic is a celebration of the life of one of the most iconic Icons of our generation. The heartbreaking, emotional story will leave you in tears, and then take you down memory lane of the joyous moments of reflection. Whitney Houston, “The Voice” will forever live in the memories and hearts of millions. My hats off to the crew, directors and everyone involved in bringing the film to the big screen. Kudos~
Sony Pictures: Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody
