DVD Corner

The Color Purple (2023) 4K UHD Review

Stick with the Steven Spielberg version.

Based on the novel by Alice Walker and the Broadway musical by Brenda Russell and Allee Willis, 2023’s “The Color Purple” is the 2nd screen adaptation (the first being Steven Spielberg’s non-musical 1985 version). Set between 1909 and 1947, the story chronicles the often troubled life of Celie Harris-Johnson who grew up with an abusive father, was separated from her sister (Nettie) and was forced to marry farmer Mister (another abusive man who has 3 children). As time passes, Celie begins to make friends (including jazz singer Shug Avery and Sofia) but her life is in a rut. Will she stand up to Mister and live her own life? Will she be able to find her sister and reunite with her once again? 

Even though 1985’s “The Color Purple” is far from a perfect film, the movie has a dramatic weight to it. 2023’s “The Color Purple” is the complete opposite. Granted, this is meant to be a different movie and is an adaptation of the musical, but the entire Marcus Gardley script rushes from one scene to another. There’s no breathing room for the characters and the material feels decidedly watered down. 

Director Blitz Bazawule attempts to make this version a splashy big budget spectacle full of visual flair, but it lacks the soul of both the novel and the first film. Sure, there’s a few showstopping numbers like “Hell No!,” but you’re left wanting more from the characters.

Even with the script issues, the film boasts a superb cast that try to keep the movie afloat.  Danielle Brooks is the clear scene stealer here as Sofia and even earned an Oscar nomination for her work here. Tajari P. Henson (Shug Avery), Colman Domingo (Mister), Corey Hawkins (Harpo), Fantasia Barrino (adult Celie), and Halle Bailey (young Nettie) also turn in noteworthy performances. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: Widescreen 2160p. How does it look? Expect a pristine transfer in which the colors really pop.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? You can’t ask for a better track for this lively musical. It hits all the right notes. 

Extras:
* Digital copy
* “Musical Moments”- A song select option.
* “Creating The Color Purple: A Bold New Take On The Beloved Classic”- A 6 minute behind-the-scenes featurette with set footage, interviews, and discussions about this adaptation, locations, etc.
* “Hell Yes! The Iconic Characters Of The Color Purple”- 7 minute bonus feature.
* “A Story For Me: The Legacy Of The Color Purple”- A 6 ½ minute extra that covers the legacy of the material. 

March 5, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Danielle Brooks, Fantasia Barrino, musical, Oscars, Steven Spielberg, Tajari P. Henson, The Color Purple (2023) 4K UHD Review, The Color Purple Musical