'The Color Purple' Musical Film Adaptation Set to Premiere on Christmas Day

Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks star in the new adaptation, bringing their Broadway roles to the big screen in a retelling that emphasizes the complexity and resilience of the lead character, Celie.

• The second film adaptation of Alice Walker’s 'The Color Purple' is due to arrive in theaters on Dec. 25, 2023. This adaptation is based on the Broadway musical version that ran from 2005 to 2008.
• Fantasia Barrino plays the lead role of Celie, a role she previously played on Broadway in 2007. Danielle Brooks, known for starring in 'Orange Is the New Black,' plays Sofia, a role she played in the 2015 Broadway revival of the show.
• The cast of the 2023 'Color Purple' adaptation attended a screening of the film in London, where they praised the film's heritage and the importance of retelling the classic story in a new way.
• Director Blitz Bazawule wanted to introduce Celie as a complex character, not just someone 'docile and waiting to be saved' as she endured abuse. This vision for Celie differs from other adaptations because it allows audiences to delve into her headspace.
• Fantasia Barrino initially declined the role, feeling that the classic story should not be revisited. However, she was convinced by Bazawule's vision of giving Celie an imagination, allowing audiences to see certain aspects of the character in a new light.

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