MOVIE ROUNDUP: BEYONCE PLAYS ETTA JAMES? / J. HUD & TYLER PERRY / SPIKE LEE’S NEW FILM
Saturday, January 26, 2008

Looks like Beyonce is sticking to her album-then-film formula. Blackvoices reported that the singer will portray famed singer Etta James in the upcoming film Cadillac Records. The soul singer is mostly known for her classic record “At Last”.
The film explores Chicago in the 1950s and Leonard Chess, founder of the South Side Chicago blues label Chess Records. The piece charts the rise and fall of legendary artists who were part of the label including James, Muddy Waters, Chess, Little Walter, Howlin’ Wolf and Elvis Presley. Jeffrey Wright, Columbus Short, and Cedric The Entertainer have also been signed on.
Filming will take place in New Jersey and Mississippi…

Tyler Perry has already begun to start up his next film project and word is, Jennifer Hudson may star in it. Tyler Perry’s The Family That Preys Together focuses on two very different families that become intimately involved in love and business.
This will be Perry’s sixth film for Lionsgate following the release of Meet The Browns. Sanaa Lathan, Alfre Woodard and Rockmond Dunbar have already been confirmed as part of the cast…

Spike Lee is currently working on a new film that stars Derek Luke, Michael Ealy, Laz Alfonso, and Omar Benson Miller. Miracle At St. Anna is set in Italy during the 1940s and tells the story of four black American soldiers who get trapped in a Tuscan village during WWII after one of them risks his life to save an Italian boy.
It is based the acclaimed novel of the same name written by James McBride. Miracle At St. Anna is scheduled to hit theaters in Fall of this year.








236 Comments
COMMENT PAGES: « 1 2 [3] 4 » Show All
151.
KNOWN
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
damn bey, can u JUST NOT SING IN A MOVIE AND JUST ACT? WELL NO CUZ SHE’S A BAD ACTRESS, i hope jen took some more classes to better her skills and this is a good for her and sanaa, and go ‘head spike, i’m loookin for that
152.
The Lyte
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
In my opinion Faith Evans would have been the best choice for Etta James. She looks somewhat like her and we all know Faith looks good with blonde hair.
153.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
I am so not happy about this. It has nothing to do with being a hater but the integrity of the movie. Beyonce is not capable of singing other people’s songs but her own. She’s proven this over and over. If you’ve listened to any of Etta James music you will realize how much of a true tragedy this is. Etta has a timeless edgeful voice that I am afraid that Beyonce will pollute with her verbrato style. There’s nothing edgy about verbrato.
“Pay them hater’s no mind, make that money bey” is what a young person posted above…because grown educated people don’t talk like that.
Yes bey…make that money and soil the integrity of this legend thus soiling the integrity of the film, make that money even though you can not act as yourself, make that money bey. Who cares if you actually can act or sing…just keep making that money soiling everything we hold dear to our hearts.
FYI, I was reading another blog and whitey is mad as hell about this news. They love Etta James They are starting to get sick of bey..
154.
DADIRAI
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
j hud an oscar winner in a black stereotype movie come on girl you can do better than this
Beyonce start going for acting lessons now and Sanaa when are you going to act in big and better movies not your usual ones Something New is your best so far wake up girl
155.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
In my opinion Faith Evans would have been the best choice for Etta James. She looks somewhat like her and we all know Faith looks good with blonde hair.
+++++++++
I think Kimberly Locke (American Idol and Celebrity Fit club) would have been a waaaay better choice because she can sing edgy and looks similar to Etta James.
156.
Not Relevant
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
So does Beyonce have to gain weight for this role?
157.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Diana Ross to be Billie Holiday on film, but she nailed that film!! Beyonce will have to do the same thing!!
++++++++++++++++
I dont know about that. The reason why Diana Ross did such a great job in lady sings the blues is because she was not afraid to to be ugly…to be gritty. I can’t say the same for Beyonce. In EVERY picture she is primed and glammed…every movie she’s done is like an extended video or photo shoot. If she pulls this roll off she would have to look beyond her vanity and get dirty. I don’t think that is possible…I don’t think she is capable of singing like Etta. So will they dub her voice? I am very interested in seeing what Etta thinks about this.
158.
DADIRAI
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
lets protest guys lol
159.
Ashley W.
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Okay If you guys haven’t realized Beyonce keeps climbing up the ladder yall will never stop her swagger. All that shit you guys are talking means nothing her pockets will continue to get fatter.
160.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
159.
Spoken like a true 20 something year old who has no idea who etta james is.
161.
blackisbeautiful
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
LMAO these comments are crazy when it comes to Beyonce! Anyways when I saw Beyonce up in “Dreamgirls” my first thought was that Beyonce persuaded the hell ot of me because she definetly didn’t have as much lines and as much of importance in “Dreamgirls” and I love spicy creoles cuny performances however when it comes to her movie roles she is as dry as Eartha Kitt’s vajayjay. Beyonce needs to grow a personality first before she takes any challeging roles because she holds back on her emotions when doing movie roles. But then again her tears on her performace of “Flaws and All” was an oscar winner itself the zesty angel wrapping his wings around her and her tears already dried up lol. Anyways if I see a preview of her acting that has persuaded me that she has improved greatly I would give her props because this is her BIGGEST challenge to persuade folks that she can act than she can sing and dance
Everyone else is doing their thing no need for critique because everyone is doing it and has proven themselves. Ever since Taraji has played in “Smoking Aces” homegirl has been taking some top movie roles. See Gabrielle it’s not because you are sista you can’t do it
162.
Jakia Carter
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Well, Everyone needs a hata, the more you got the better you know you are.
But, This Beyonce and Etta thing is a rumor. I wish it wasn’t but yeah, it is. And Beyonce is pregnant 4 real this time so she wouldn’t be doing a movie. Notice how we haven’t seen any Beyonce pics 4 like 2 weeks, and the last one we saw she was rounded in the stomach.So, dont get yall hopes up for this movie.
JHud needs 2 sit down, cuz Dreamgirls was just a lucky movie 4 her, I coulda been up there screaming my lungs out 2.
Sanaa is a great actress I love her.
163.
DADIRAI
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
162 you are so funny you could be there screaming you lungs too lol
164.
archera
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Sorry, but Beyonce does not have the same bass richness in her voice to emulate Etta’s singing effectively. The part should have been casted to new talent. Not a hater, b/c I do feel that no one can touch B when it comes to performing on stage. Some things are just out of your league.
I guess she does have the star quality to push the film tho. Hollywood is concerned with making money.
I’m excited about The new Spike Lee Joint. Hopefully, he will be nominated for one of the big awards this time around.
165.
moxpoe
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
c’mon……..beyonce as etta james.
Where’s C Aguilera……she may just be a better fit for the role. Beyonce only sounds bluesy when she talks.
166.
blackisbeautiful
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
@165
Now you know the Black community would be outraged if Chirstina Aguilera played Etta James you need to be slapped for that one lol. A White woman playing a Black woman? I can see the comment box filling up if that was to be true lol
167.
Shan Shan
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Queen Latifah is a better choice. She has that bluesy sound to her voice. And the Queen can act. Beyonce can’t act for shit.
168.
ChokLitFactory
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
The Spike Lee Movie looks good….And I will most def see the new Tyler Perry since I’m a big fan!! Plus I love me some Sanaa Lathan. Beyonce as Etta…whatever, movie sounds good, and I liked her in Dreamgirls. If Bee’s lookin for Oscar-type recognition tho, she needs to play ugly in a movie…just sayin…
169.
Lady Architect
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
I’m sorry I luv Bey as a singer and stage entertainer…but as an actress I can’t stand to watch her on film….People talking bout this is like her 7th movie role, but she did horrible in all her other six roles to me…sorry I even thought she did bad in dreamgirls when it was time for her to act…singing she’s great but that’s it. I think they picked her for this role because of her fame and they feel her fame will bring more people to see the movie….That’s the only reason she was casted for gold finger, pink panther, and her other roles…cause of her extreme fame in the music world…Queen LAtifah would’ve been a better choice….she has a better more controlled voice….anyways I’m excited for Tyler’s movie and I’ve always loved Spike Lee’s movies…I’m excited for these black screen writers.
170.
Luckett
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
@Lydia
Who is Viola Davis? I’ve never heard of her. The other 3 I know about but not Viola. Let me go do my research. To star alongside Meryl Strip says alot about you as an actress. Interesting.
Anywho, I will support Jennifer, Sanaa, & Alfre any day. Sensational cast that Tyler put together. I will support him. He did a good job showing black in a beautiful light with “Why Did I Get Married”.
Spike Lee is the man. Derek Luke and Michael Ealy…will support these fine azz, sexy brothas. I hope they take off their shirts and sweat.
171.
Luckett
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Viola Davis stars in the movie “The Architect”. Just saw the trailer and looks good. Jayden is in it and looks like she is giving a powerful performance in that one scene. I love Jayden she is the Anti-Lindsay Lohan. But Viola I’ve seen her in other movies. From what I’ve seen in the trailer this lady might be worthy of an oscar buzz. I can’t believe how we overlook real black actresses sometimes. Damn shame.
172.
breezejef
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
To ALLLLLLLLLLLL Beyonce haters…..GO Kill Yourself!!!! Let this talented black woman do her thing without you non-talent people hating….if you have anything bad to say..say it about B. Spears, Kim K, Lindsay Lohan,…the list goes on!!! HATING IS A DISEASE….GO GET CHECKED!!!!!!!!!!!
173.
kindafamous
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
I don’t know how good of an idea it is to cast Beyonce as Etta James. Beyonce is just way too “Beyonce”..u know what I mean? It’s like, I’m never able to actually view her as whatever character she happens to be playing…all I ever see on screen is “Beyonce”. I know its not her fault..but I just don’t think she’s believable as any character besides “Sasha”.
174.
C Shaw
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
For all the people that want anyone other than Beyonce to play the part need to sit down. Beyonce is a mega star. No one bats an eye when chicks like Angelia Jolie get 10-20 million a film. The reason why Beyonce was casted is because she is the sole reason why mainstream America would even entertain seeing a biopic about the legendary blues singer. Honestly I don’t know much about Etta James and I am looking foward to seeing this movie, can’t say that I would be so inclined to see it if there weren’t heavy weight stars slated to appear in it.
175.
prettyflower
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Hello,
I just happened to be reading this post and first I want to say I am proud of Beyonce as a black woman and all that she has accomplished.
Maybe you all are under 30 years old, but Etta James is a legend and still living. She is a Blues singer who is awesome and has contributed enormously to black music in the 50’s and still going strong today. She was a heroin addict and alchoholic at one point and still drinks today, but her music is great. To play her one would have to relate to that lifestyle and that element. I do not see Beyonce connecting with this type of character and causing us all to believe that she is a Blues singer with a rough, tough, south chicago ghetto life, she cannot portray this type of a character with authenticity., maybe her camp will rethink the decision we’ll see.
ALSO EVERYONE RESEARCH ETTA JAMES AND LISTEN TO HER MUSIC AND SEE FOR YOURSELVES.
JUST HAD TO COMMENT ETTA IS A LEGEND AND THE SAME WAY ANGELA DID JUSTICE TO TINA TURNER AND DIANA TO BILLIE HOLIDAY(DIANA HAD EXPERIENCE WITH PAIN, GROWING UP IN THE PROJECTS, POOR RELATIONSHIPS, BABIES ALL THINGS WHICH ADDED TO HER BRINGING A SENSE OF TRUTH TO A CHARACTER IN PAIN) SOMEONE NEEDS TO DO JUSTICE TO ETTA ANOTHER FABULOUS LEGEND IN BLACK MUSIC WHO DESERVES RESPECT
PEACE
176.
CHOICE
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
I agree how can they give this role to beyonce, tis sad as much as I love etta I guess I wont be watching it. and I guess anyone who is for beyonce getting the role is not familar with ettas music she had many more hits than At Last Such as roll with me Henry, and some others I cant think of right now because of this madness.
http://www.blacksandjews.com/
177.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
For all the people that want anyone other than Beyonce to play the part need to sit down. Beyonce is a mega star. No one bats an eye when chicks like Angelia Jolie get 10-20 million a film. The reason why Beyonce was casted is because she is the sole reason why mainstream America would even entertain seeing a biopic about the legendary blues singer. Honestly I don’t know much about Etta James and I am looking foward to seeing this movie, can’t say that I would be so inclined to see it if there weren’t heavy weight stars slated to appear in it.
+++++++++++
Obviously…because if you did you would see why Beyonce playing her is a disgrace. And what does Angelina Jolie have to do with the price of milk in china? Angelina Jolie is an actress who has studied acting and won 3 golden globes. She has earned the right to get paid the millions of dollars that she gets paid to act in a film….she is what you call an A lister celeb in Hollywood. Her father is Jon Voight who is an actor as well and started acting in the late 60s. He’s also won awards such as Cannes, Golden Globe and an Oscar or two. I say this to say that Angelina comes from a family of acting. So why exactly are you using Angelina Jolie as an example for Beyonce messing up another film?
178.
DADIRAI
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
177 beyonce sucks leave angela jolie out of this all of all the movies beyonce actedin have you ever heard of people talking about her characters ? No she sucks gabrielle union ,taraj and other are black girls are way better than her
What about keyshia Cole for the role of eta james?
179.
Marysfan
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
BEY SIT YA ASS DOWN AND REST!
180.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
177 beyonce sucks leave angela jolie out of this all of all the movies beyonce actedin have you ever heard of people talking about her characters ? No she sucks gabrielle union ,taraj and other are black girls are way better than her
What about keyshia Cole for the role of eta james?
__________
Dang I was replying to #174…they brought up angelina jolie not me.
Anyways…Keisha Cole seems interesting. But I really like the idea of Kimberly Locke playing Etta James.
For those of you who still stan Beyonce playing Etta James, please view the attached youtube video of an Etta James Performance. And if you think Beyonce can do this woman justice in singing and on screen…well obviously there is something wrong with you…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyMd19sE6U4
181.
Beyonce wins again! LOL
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
ROTFLMAO @ the Beyonce haters. All I have to say is one thing. Beyonce is the most popular and successful black female artist at the end of the day. So you can say she’s wrong for the part or whatever but it won’t change the fact that millions of people love her and will go see it just because she’s in it.
So basically I’m laughing because unless you’ve been dead for the past 11 years, Beyonce is successful at everything she does. You say she can’t act yet her movies are box office hits and she’s the highest paid black actress under 30. So stop wasteing your time. It’s like this on every Beyonce post. Haters hate and say she ’s this she’s that blah blah blah. And at the end of the day she’s still successful and they’re even more mad.
Beyonce is making her haters mad on purpose. I ain’t mad at her. Anything she wants she gets and the haters are jealous that no other black female artist gets the recognition that Beyonce gets. Don’t hate the player hate the game. Tell your fave artist to step their game up.
Like the other millions of people who saw Dreamgirls and all her other movies I will go see it just because BEYONCE is in it. If it was Queen Latifah Keyshia Cole or any other D-list singer nobody would go see it. Only Beyonce brings attraction because she has the support of millions of people around the world. Why do you think she’s been consistently successful for 11 years? Beyonce is a legend in the making and I can’t wait till 20 years from now when she gets her Lifetime Achievement Award for her accomplishments in music, fashion, and acting. Go head Bey keep making your haters more mad! Beyonce is the one celebrity that it’s a waste of time to hate on. The more ya’ll hate the more successful she becomes. I thought ya’ll might have figured that out by now. LOL Go B stay on top!!!!!!!!!!!
182.
ashleigh
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
anything with micheal ealy…i will see.he is FOINE
183.
Monique_RealTalk
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Jscene, Jscene, Jscene…you are truly not a fan of Beyonce. You always have so many negative things to say about the woman like you grew up w/ her or something. LOL!! You are obsessed and crazy as hell to think that what you’ve said about Beyonce has any truth to it!! LOL
Beyonce and Jennifer are going to do great in their upcoming movie roles. I’m happy for all of our Black people doing big things! Love Tyler Perry…he has a movie coming out on 3-21 and I can’t wait to see that one.
184.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Like the other millions of people who saw Dreamgirls and all her other movies I will go see it just because BEYONCE is in it.
+++++++++++
Ugh…go bey…make that money bey…keep makin those haters mad bey….
Who cares if you are completely wrong for the part bey just keep makin those haters mad…ughblah blah blah…only a 20 something year old would say something like this.
Beyonce is very successful, no one is denying that. Especially when she has maniac obssessive stans who spend their whole allowances on House of Do it So Wrong clothing, and mistaken her acting as artistry. I think she is a wonderful entertainer. The way that lacefront blows and shakes is like its an entity of its own. LOL I’m just joshing you, but seriously she is a wonderful pop entertainer and she is one hard working woman, But after 6 or 7 movies…and you’re acting is still laughable (not good when you are in a dramatic role) maybe this is one thing she should leave alone. Or at the very least, dedicate herself to going to school for acting. Some people can roll out of bed and say…”I think I want to be an actress”. Some people can’t and need to work at it. She has established herself as a phenomenal pop artist. She’s been singing since she was 2 or 3. That is her talent. If she is serious about winning an Oscar by the time she is 30…then she needs to dedicate herself fully to it. Take a few years to completely dedicate yourself to Acting. Take a break from singing…hell she’s worked hard and long enough to take a break, But she is not a person who is naturally talented in acting….period. This has nothing to do with hating…its the TRUTH.
185.
a.k.a. new yorker
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
beyonce can’t act BUT the producers don’t care. it’s all about revenue and they know her obsessed will actually watch the movie. they’re smart if you think about it
186.
kjlkj
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Beyonce sucks in acting, they should have picked someone else.
187.
phyl
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Who in heaven’s name thought to cast her to play Etta James ? Jay-Z ? That is by far the stupidest choice for the part…If you know ANYTHING about MS. JAMES, you would know that BEY is NOT a good person for the part. Shame…I can think of SO MANY OTHER TALENTED ACTRESSES/SINGERS who could bring that part home..
188.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Who in heaven’s name thought to cast her to play Etta James ? Jay-Z ?
++++++++++
No I don’t think it was Jay…he’s a realist. This has Matthew and Beyonce written all over it.
189.
msblknasty1
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
bey looks good in that pic but how long ago was that pic this might be her chance to prove that she can multi task …. mathew beg for this and i mean he beggggged…..lolol
190.
cinderabella
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
I just have to comment on this post. First of all, I am NOT nor have I ever been jealous of Beyonce in any form or fashion. I do not sing, dance and/or attempt to act. However, I am grounded in reality. She does NOT have the depth of character or the singing ability to pull this role off successfully. She is overly ambitious and reaching far beyond her scope. Someone earlier had posted about Diana Ross and her being in comparasion. Good! I have respect for these ladies contributes to the pop culture of today. They have there places, just not along side Ms. Franklin, Patti LaBelle and Etta James. They are heavy hitters in the R&B arena.
They(Beyonce and Diana Ross) have the same type of singing abilities to me. She(Beyonce) is out of her league even attempting to “sing” like Ms. Etta. Forget the acting aspect of the equation.
It is a shame when the white culture has more respest for our contributions to the music industry…There is no other race, in my opinion, that has been mimiced, duplicated and so forth more than African-Americans. It is a part of our legacy and as a new generation of supposely highly educated and more informed Americans that we protect these influences. It is simply another facet that “others” are taking and violating us with.
We should voice our disdain for this type of treatment in our cultural arts. She was not choosen became of talent and ability but commericalism. Mainstream American is gleeful about our musicial talents being so “average”. However, they know that you are conditioned to receive and accept 2nd best, so you will go and rant and rave about wonderful she was because you do not know any better!
191.
Karen
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Can’t wait to see Beyonce!
192.
Throws Sunshine in the Air
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
We should voice our disdain for this type of treatment in our cultural arts. She was not choosen became of talent and ability but commericalism. Mainstream American is gleeful about our musicial talents being so “average”. However, they know that you are conditioned to receive and accept 2nd best, so you will go and rant and rave about wonderful she was because you do not know any better!
+++++++++++++++++
I agree with you 100% but how do we fight for something that we never owned? Yes we created it, but we never reaped the benefits of profit…we only recieved a small portion. With all of the Diddy’s, Jay-Zs, Dupris, etc we never EVER owned our own mass distribution. This applies to film as well. I believe oprah is the only african american woman who owns her own studio…Harpo. And because of this she is able to produce and distribute films that better us as a people. For all of you who don’t know, distribution is where the money is…owning your own label or declared President of a label is wonderful, but owning your own distribution is even better.
193.
Brothers45.com - Distinguished Black Men Pictures Gallery
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Makes you wonder how she keeps getting these roles… That’s hollywood for ya… It’s who u know literally…
194.
Van
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
Beyonce cannot act. Before she takes on such a challening role, she needs to consider taking some acting classes. Especially, if she wants to get a potential oscar. It doesn’t matter how much money the movie may gross, it depends on whether or not it has “Oscar” Potential.
She should stick with singing.
195.
Etta_Boycott!!!!
Sunday, January 27, 2008 /
IF Beyonce really wants this role and raly wants to do Etta justice then she will put everything on hold and dedicate herself to strengthing her craft as an actress or lac thereof. Her acting , in my opinion, is like dancing by numbers. Smile here, give your line, push your lips out, swing your hair and cut for the next scene. Acting is one area where Beyonce’s talent to entertain on a stage does not lend itself. Mainstream will go see it because of Beyonce not because they know anything about Etta and her talent. This is a waste, pray this a rumor and cooler heads prevail.
196.
Like WOW
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Damn Everybody Hate on Bee Lol……..I mean She’s so talented why hate on her for? Whats has she done to yall? But Go Bee you do you and kill dat shyt. and tht Tyler Perry movie seems pretty good.
197.
CHERYLINMIAMI
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
IF THIS IS TRUE, THE PRODUCER IS THE ONE THAT CHOOSE HER. SOME OF YOU ACT LIKE PEOPLE JUST GO IN AND SAY I WANT THE PART AND THE PRODUCER OR WRITER SAYS OKAY.
198.
C Shaw
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
@ # 174
All those people you mentioned will have the film go straight to DVD.
199.
C Shaw
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
@ # 180 the response to my orginal post # 174
All those people you mentioned will have the film go straight to DVD
200.
Munchie
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Congrats Bee! Hollywood truly loves this talented woman! I can’t wait to see this movie. Bee and Cedric the Entertainer in the same movie will be off the charts! I am so looking forward to this!
I guess when Bee sings she survived the Haters, she was talking to the catty folks on this board!LOL Jill Scott really needed Bee in her video…
Hate on me, hater
Now or later
‘Cuz I’m gonna do me
You’ll be mad, baby
(Go ‘head and hate)
Go ‘head and hate on me, hate on
‘Cuz I’m not afraid of it
What I got I paid for
You can hate on me
No matter where I live,
Despite the things I give,
You’ll always be this way
So go ‘head and….
(Chorus)
Hate on me, hater
Now or later
‘Cuz I’m gonna do me
You’ll be mad, baby
(Go ‘head and hate)
Go ‘head and hate on me, hate on
‘Cuz I’m not afraid of it
What I got I paid for
You can hate on me
You cannot hate on me
‘Cuz my mind is free
Feel my destiny
So shall it be
201.
madina
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
interesting movie
can’t wait to see B in it, I hope she’ll sing “at last”,it’s a beautiful song
202.
AP1
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
I think they need to give Cristina A. some makeup and let it do what it do!!!! I love Ms B, but I think Etta James’ vocals are way beyond B’s range. Xtina would kill that!
203.
Can i hold a dollar?
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Ahh who gives a damn! Beyonce is a successful woman doing something she loves. Compared to other females in the industry her age she is a good role model. If she wants to take a role where she does nothing but sit in a corner and chant the alphabet to herself she can. It’s her life and career not anyone elses. If this is the direction she wants to go that’s her choice. No one on this site has hundreds of people constantly trying to give them life and career advice. Some of this internet life coaches kill me. You constantly try to spout what you think another person should do with their life like they give a damn or your opinion matters to them. The woman has been doing fine so far in her life and career and she must be doing something right if she achieved the level of success she has. Whoever gave her the role obviously thought she was a good fit for the part it’s their movie not yours so get over it. If you don’t like who they chose for the role get a video camera and film your own movie on Etta’s life and put it up on youtube. Maybe a big Hollywood executive will see it and like your vision better and do something with it.
I can’t wait for Spike’s new movie. Derek Luke is one of my favs.
204.
If This World Were Mine...
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
I’m not a hater, but I feel that Beyonce is the most OVER RATED chick in the industry today! Please don’t get me wrong. Ms.Knowles does have talent, but not nearly as much as she is credited with.She is a wonderful performer, but as an actress she is mediocre. If she did cry after not receiving an Oscar then she might as well pull out the tissues. Unless she has gone through some serious acting lessons, she is going to be crying again.I feel like there are several other ladies(both famous and not) that could have don’t this role justice! Beyonce is making her money though so congrats.
205.
KSH
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
As soon as they tell Bey she needs to thicken up to play Etta - it will be a done deal. Etta was a thick sister and I can’t see Bey wanting to pack on the pounds for the sake of an Oscar.
206.
Lady Architect
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
#181,
You must have truly lost your mind….Queen LAtifah a D-list star?….That lady has many accomplishments, endorsements, and all the other successes. Not only is she archived as one of the greatest female rappers, she is also a well accomplished jazz and blues singer, and a very successful actress. I mean did you see this lady in Chicago? Or have you listened to any of her albums…She has way more talent and she can act her butt off. She’s one of the few black actresses that have had the numerous opportunities to work with major actors and actresses such as Diane Keaton, Steve Martin, and Catherine Zeta Jones…the list goes on. You can clearly see that Beyonce was chosen simply because of her fame in the pop world and all her fans would go see it which would bring in revenue. For those who know about Etta James…it’s sad that her story will get no true justice. I bet 9 out of 10 people who see the movie will still have no knowledge of Etta…they will just be worried about how good Beyonce does or look…etc…Some people just need to stick with what they are good at…Beyonce is good at singing in the pop culture….leave acting to those that have studied and pulled the grades to play these wonderful parts.
207.
Dlish
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
oooooh @ #25!! I would have loved to see LAtifah with this part!! She would’ve been perfect! I don’t know if Bey will justify Etta’s significance as much witn this role, she is not that great of an actress..I’m just saying…to carry a biopic.
I luv Spike’s and Tyler’s movies!! can’t wait!
208.
kilo
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Beyonce playing Etta James thats a laugh she doesnt have the voice to pull off stormy weather, at last these are great songs but Beyonce give me a break I’m not hating but being over the age of 25 I know how Etta James is and her music you guys should check out her songs and you will see what i am talking about also her biography is a great read Rage to Survive so Beyonce is the wrong choice glad J-Hud isn’t having a slump and T Perry doing the thing the Spike Lee movie should be good cause the book was real good. Expand your mind
OUT
209.
Gem
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
I seriously doubt Beyonce will gain the weight…and not because she doesn’t want to but because if she’s gotten this role, it’s because of her appeal…and her appeal in inextricably tied to her looks…there’s no way they’ll risk her not being able to get back to regular form by the time they begin promoting the film…. To give her a bit of credit, the producers of Dreamgirls did her dirty…she gave that film loads of free promotion in her own interviews about her album and career and once it was clear that Jennifer Hudson was carrying the film, they ditched the girl, saying publicly that Jennifer stole the show. So, I really hope that whatever free promotion this movie gets isn’t at her expense…
210.
1prettyb
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
……um ok….huh?….really? Can I get a role please give me my acting debut! Bea can sing, dance and perform her ass off at concerts, shows,ets. But acting…no dear! Some things are just not meant for you sweety…and i say this with love bey cause I am yo numeral uno in the stans club….don’t do it, let someone else have it! Make another album and leave that genre to the ppl that can act. You # 1 when it comes to musical entertainment…just don’t try and mix it up with acting.
211.
Phil-Up
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
I think a lot of people underestimate Beyonce. Frankly, I think she was a good choice for the role because I think she can make herself sound like Etta James. We don’t know if Chrisette Michele can even act and Countess Vaughn is wayyyy tooo below the radar to be cast in any movie. Like someone else said its just her time to shine so why not take advantage. Why would her daddy have to pay for her opportunities just so they can pay her…it makes no sense. I guess behind every successful person lies a bunch of haters.
212.
Kudos Beyonce
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Kudo’s to Beyonce!!! I’ve seen footage of Etta and Beyonce can definitely handle this role. I think she did well as Deena too. The role called for barely any speaking in a lot of scenes and yet she pulled it off; you remembered she was in that scene. As she gets more scenes that’ll evoke her to show passion, the better she’ll become as an actress. It’s hard for black actresses in Hollywood so whatever she gets, I’m rooting for her.
213.
H-Town Chic***
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
PEOPLE PLEASE STOP HATING ON BEY!!!! IT’S NOT THAT CRUCIAL. THE MOVIE IS NOT EVEN BASED OFF OF ETTA JAMES. IT’S THE RECORD LABEL. HER IS NOT HORRIBLE SHE JUST NEED TO WORK ON SOME STUFF BUT I RESPECT HER BECAUSE WHATEVER SHE NEEDS TO IMPROVE SHE’LL DO THAT AND NO MATTER YALL THINK THE FACT REMAINS SHE WAS NOMINATED FOR OSCAR AND A GOLDEN GLOBE.
I LOOK FORWARD SEEING ALL THESE MOVIES.
214.
Gem
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
To all of you people saying Beyonce can handle the role (and it’s not just you stans, oddly enough my friend thinks she’ll better handle Etta than she did Diana/Deena…he insists much of what made her such a wreck in Dreamgirls was her uncomfortable struggle against sounding ghetto)…I say….her performance in Dreamgirls says she can’t. First of all, I don’t even know that she gets what acting is… She, literally, stood around gazing awkwardly until performance scenes…and then she imitated Diana as someone might during a coversation around the dinner table….surface, easy stuff anybody might do in jest: hunching her back, contorting her mouth that way. It was awful, sorry…
215.
Hatshepset
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Uh Oh! Here we go again! I wonder…how hard can it be be to portray a singer when you are a singer. Well she sure wont see any awards with another singing role again. Way To Go Bey…. I was really rutin for you.
216.
Meat
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Damn, I thought Etta James was “Jade” from ANTM cycle 6!
217.
Angeline26
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Beyawnce’s voice and acting skills are not strong enough to play Etta James. It just won’t work. She’ll have to lipsync. They should’ve offered the part to a professional actress who can sing. There are plenty of actresses who could play the role. They only gave her the role, because of who she is. They know that she has a lot of fans who support her and see the movie. They should give Nia Long to play the part. She could lipsync like Angela Bassett did with Tina Turner. I know Beyawnce desperately wants to be taken seriously as an actress, but how can she when all of her acting jobs involve her being a singer? She’s already typecast.
218.
laye01
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
I am so sick of this horse hair heffa….we need to see someone NEW now.!!!!!
she need to take a break..for awhile and let someone else have a opportunity to be seen geezzzzzzzzzzzzzzze
219.
Kenzy
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
yo, dead ass, beyonce can’t see etta james..so why she playing her???
220.
Kenzy
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
oh and i love bee….but seriously..she cant see Etta James…
221.
madina
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
DAMN!!!!!!
the hate on this topic and I’m sure 90%of people complainin’ didn’t know who was Etta James and didn’t even care about her until it became Beyoncé related.
SO SAD!
222.
kely
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
Do ur thing beyonce !!!
223.
Quinton Ware
Monday, January 28, 2008 /
To the Movin_On_Up person I disagree with you I didn’t know who Etta James was I had to google her so she should glad that someone as big as Beyonce is going to play her!!!!!!! They should have got somewashed up celebrity!!!!!!
224.
Sara
Tuesday, January 29, 2008 /
Beyonce is going to do a great job as Etta James. I’m tired of some people saying that Beyonce is not soulful. Just because she’s a gorgeous girl and is polished, doesn’t mean that she isn’t soulful. It’s like a black woman can’t be beautiful without people saying that she only relies on her look. Anybody not in denial can see that Beyonce has a tremendous amount of talent and creativity. She’s really the only triple threat out there, and the girl has a great work ethic.
As far as Beyonce doing another singing role, there are people whose whole career were just musicals. But Beyonce has only done one true musical and that was Dreamgirls. Beyonce didn’t sing that much in Goldmember. She had only one scene where she sung. She was a spy in the movie. In the Fighting Temptations, she was a single, young mother. In the Pink Panther, she had a small role playing a world-famous singer. Of course in Dreamgirls, it was about the internal struggles of a girl group. So even though she’s sung in her all her movies, the characters’ lives have always had varied backgrounds. She has had to show different sides to herself in each.
She has always done a nice job in her movies and with only four movies under her belt she’ll continue to grow as an actress. I think with the Etta movie she’ll have her most challenging and versatile role yet, I know the girl is up for it because she is the very definition of a true artist.
225.
the floacist
Tuesday, January 29, 2008 /
“I didn’t here any of you complain when they use Angelina Jolie to play a black woman in ” a mighty Heart””
UUMMM. EVERYBODY was whilin’ out and going crazy. STFU. How you going to make a comparison/analogy example that is completely the opposite of what you’re trying to make? LMFAO.
COMMENT PAGES: « 1 2 [3] 4 » Show All