Bessie

The Gist: The story of legendary blues singer Bessie Smith, from her days singing backup to becoming a star.

Bessie Smith had one of the best voices in the history of blues, a voice I like very much, so I was looking forward to watching this movie. I wasn't disappointed.

The writing is nicely paced between more crucial events of Smith's life and less important ones. And the fact that it didn't try to whitewash Smith's bisexuality or the fact that people would simply turn a blind eye to it even when it was publicly displayed is to be commended. Times surely have changed.

Queen Latifah shines in a role she was born to play, baring (literally) her body and soul in order to embody one of the greatest singers who ever lived.

Michael Kenneth Williams plays her husband, through thick and thin, and delivers another great performance. When will this excellent actor get his dues?

The Bottom Line: Bessie is a good movie, in spite of the seemingly lower budget of a television production, and if you like blues, or Ms. Smith, or Queen Latifah, you shouldn't miss it.

Grade: 7