On this day December 25, 2006, the hit movie Dreamgirls was released. The movie is based on the Broadway musical of the same name, which was inspired by the rise of Motown and R&B music in the 1960s and 1970s.
The story revolves around a trio of African American female singers, Effie White (played by Jennifer Hudson), Deena Jones (played by Beyoncé Knowles), and Lorrell Robinson (played by Anika Noni Rose), who form a singing group called The Dreamettes. They start as backup singers for a popular R&B star named James “Thunder” Early (played by Eddie Murphy) and eventually make their way to the top in the music industry.
“Dreamgirls” explores the challenges and sacrifices that come with fame and success, as well as themes of friendship, betrayal, and the impact of the music industry on artists. The film won several awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actress (Jennifer Hudson) and Best Sound Mixing.
Jennifer Hudson’s powerful performance in “Dreamgirls” earned her widespread recognition and catapulted her career in the entertainment industry. The film’s soundtrack also became a big success, featuring memorable songs such as “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” and “Listen.”