JB’s Weekend Movie- Cadillac Records (2008)

 

Directed by Darnell Martin

Screenplay by Darnell Martin

Starring Adrien Brody, Jeffrey Wright, Gabrielle Union, Mos Def, Beyonce Knowles

Awards:
Black Reel Award for Best Ensemble Cast

Black Reel Award for Best Film

Black Real Award for Best Supporting Actor- Jeffrey Wright

Image Award for Best Supporting Actor- Columbus Short

 

Cadillac Records follows the rise and fall of Chess Records founder Leonard Chess (Brody). Chess played a major roll in the early Chicago blues movement. He also was the one to discover and sign the true “King of Rock & Roll”, Chuck Berry (Mos Def). But blues legend Muddy Waters was his first and most successful early act. The first thing you notice about this movie is Jeffrey Wright as Muddy. He learned to play the guitar for the roll, and the dedication paid off. The authenticity of his roll shines through all the rest. Beyonce’s performance as the amazing Etta James was really only notable for her singing, but god damn if it doesn’t make you pissed like me to see that she can sing songs like that, yet chooses to resort to her “Sasha Fierce” image. (I just threw up a little bit) She could probably single handedly bring great soul music back if she’d get her head out of her ass. Anyway, as for Adrien Brody, well, he’s always great. Also, watch for Columbus Short as Little Walter. He turns in a great, overlooked performance.

 

JB