The upcoming cinema release of “The Color Purple” promises a fresh take on Alice Walker’s classic novel, this time highlighting its lesbian subplot. The film, a musical adaptation produced by Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg, aims to focus more on the protagonist Celie’s romantic feelings for singer Shug Avery.
A Bold and Intimate Adaptation
Director Blitz Bazawule emphasizes the importance of representing Celie as a queer icon, ensuring the film delves deeply into her internal experiences and emotional journey. The adaptation plans to explore Celie’s evolving feelings towards Shug, marking a significant shift from previous versions. Scott Sanders, who produced the stage musical, remarks on the remarkable talent involved in this project.
Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel has undergone various adaptations since its release. However, this version seeks to right the past oversights regarding the queer storyline between Celie and Shug, a narrative element that was downplayed in Spielberg’s 1985 film adaptation.
A Star-Studded Cast
The latest adaptation features talents like Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks, reprising their roles from the Broadway musical, and Taraji P. Henson as Shug. The film is set to open in the US on December 25 and in UK cinemas on January 26, offering a renewed lens on Celie’s story for both old fans and new audiences.