Movies with Isaiah: Ackie captures iconic singer in 'Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody'

Oprah Winfrey made the claim that Whitney Houston's voice is a national monument/landmark. I'm not positive if that's the exact quote word for word. However, one statement that will remain forever true in the world of music is no one will ever match the power, emotion and versatility of the late, great Whitney Houston.

My introduction to Houston didn't happen until she exploded into the stratosphere during the release of her film "The Bodyguard," accompanied with the iconic soundtrack. In the '90s, her popularity easily rivaled that of Michael Jackson. Despite the negative reception of "The Bodyguard," her contributions to the soundtrack made it one of the most successful albums of all time. Growing up, I didn't have the appreciation for different genres of music like I do now. When I learned that "I Will Always Love You" was originally sung by Dolly Parton, I was mystified at the revelation, seeing as Houston made the song her own, and it rightfully became associated with her after she surpassed all expectations.

Films centered on specific legendary artists depend on several factors. First, does the actor or actress capture the essence of the figure? Second, are they talented enough to perform the musical numbers at hand? Third, will their story be told in an accurate manner? Fourth, combined with the third question, will their story present them in a favorable or controversial light? My initial concerns upon watching the trailer solely rested on whether they would have Naomi Ackie attempt to sing the songs we're all familiar with. Despite the factors I mentioned previously, that was my only true legitimate concern.

Houston's musical film titled "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" is a reflection on the rise and monumental success before her tragic and sad downward spiral, her marriage to Bobby Brown and questions surrounding her unexpected passing. The last few musical biographical films I've watched have been amazing. "Ray," "Walk the Line," "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "Rocketman" are all stand-out outings in cinematic quality by introducing legendary music to a new generation and forever immortalizing their art in sacred stone within the mind and soul.

"I Wanna Dance with Somebody" proved to be an interesting film for me as a viewer, as it prompted me into quick research afterward. There were certain facts that they implemented in the film that had me asking questions, propelling me into extensive studying. Answers that I came upon reminded me that with any story surrounding around a real figure, embellishments of details are bound to happen in order to make the viewing more interesting, exciting and shocking for the audience.

This film has continued the trend of 2022 with outstanding outings that provide quality storytelling and emotional acting, taking the audience on a journey into the artistry and tragic life that was Houston's existence. Let me say that Naomi Ackie provided a powerful performance of a lifetime portraying the icon who became known as The Voice. Houston's singing abilities demonstrated divine power, effortless control, passionate emotion, and if we were to hear an angel from Heaven singing, I fully believe it would sound like Whitney Houston.

There's no mistaking that voice, and hearing it through auditorium speakers sent chills, manifesting emotional tears, and Ackie's performance had me believing I was watching Houston come alive again. No one will ever be able to capture the other-world vocal ability. However, Ackie brought her talent on full display in disappearing into the role with the attitude, sass and determination that Houston maintained during her life. In various moments in the film, Ackie looked and sounded exactly like Houston, particularly when they delve into the beginning, gradual rise and her explosion into the stratosphere after she sang the national anthem at the Super Bowl and in "The Bodyguard." I believe legends who passed away tend to use certain actors or actresses as vessels. For me, watching this story unfold proved to me without any doubt that Ackie embraced the spirit of Houston by disappearing into the performance completely. If she's not nominated for an Academy Award, I will be stunned.

One element I greatly appreciated is the film didn't focus extensively on Houston's troubles in a way that pointed blame at one individual. It allowed the viewer to form their own conclusion rather than attempting to persuade a narrative for shock value, aside from the questions associated with her marriage to Brown and how much of an influence he had on her downward spiral is conjecture. All I will say is regardless of who is to blame, there's no denying the music world experienced a severe wound when she passed away. Another trend that I am noticing is the spot-on casting in general. Stanley Tucci looked and sounded exactly like studio mogul Clive Davis, and Ashton Sanders was a complete spitting image of Brown with his body language and posture, way of speaking and facial expressions. However, all the praise must be given to Ackie. She achieved the impossible with completely embodying the physical essence of Houston with her dance movements, tense facial expressions when performing the songs on stage and in music videos, and key emotional scenes that transpire clearly show that she's not a one-hit wonder in terms of acting.

I am very thankful this film was made, bringing focus to Houston's music again and how she truly was The Voice of America. This is another required viewing in my opinion. Please, do not miss a chance to watch it. I don't believe you'll be disappointed. Final rating for "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" is a resounding 10/10 and two thumbs up.

Isaiah Ridley works at Beacon Cinemas in Sumter. To watch his movie reviews online, find him @Izzy's Cinematic Escape on YouTube.