Dreamgirls

[TiCam]

Since every gay and their cat and dog is anticipating the gay movie event of the year DREAMGIRLS, I thought I'd tell you what I was lucky enough to catch a test screening in San Diego.... and let me tell you it's all what we hoped for and then some. Not only are the queens going to have a field day with it, but it's going to reach out to an extremely large audience. It's the most accessible musical in years.

Beyonce, well let's just say I think its clear she put all her energy into this movie and had none left over for her album (judging by the crass releases so far). She's quite stunning to watch. The role of Deena has never been a deep one, but Beyonce does what the part requires and she DOES act. Her vocals are out of this world! She has never looked more gorgeous, and she acts like a total bitch.... wait a minute isn't she just playing herself? Oh, well, it works.

Welcome back Eddie Murphy! I thought you had succumb to dodgy kids flicks for the rest of your career. This a return to pure Eddie. In fact, it's probably his best performance. He sings, he dances, and he's hilarious to boot. Sure it's a bit creepy watching him salivate over gorgeous newcomer Anika Noni Rose, but it adds to the charm of his character..

I have saved the best for last.... Jennifer *%$#@ Hudson.... this has to be the most unexpected performance I have seen in like years. This is one of those newcomer performances that comes along in a blue moon. Everything the queens came to worship the character of Effie for are beautifully realised by Hudson. She yells, she screams, and she tells Jamie Foxx to shut up (what most of us want to do but haven't plucked up the courage).

One of the best scenes in the film involves her finding out she has been kicked out of the group, in favour of Bee. She rants, she's practically about ready to punch Beyonce and Jamie Foxx out, and then they abandon her.... and the song comes... yes the song that everyone was wondering "Could she do justice to it?" Well she does and then some. Every word, every note, is so perfectly created it's just thrilling to watch.... this is gonna get her an Oscar nomination. Ironic isn't it? Take that Fantasia.

All in all, your gonna adore this flick. Bill Condon has done wonders with this 25 year old musical and has made it a living, breathing cinematic event... did I mention Jennifer Hudson is a star?