Get on Up (2014)

Release date: 2014-08-01
Country: UK|USA
Language: English
Director: Tate Taylor
Production Co: Imagine Entertainment, Jagged Films, Wyolah Films
Genre: Biography, Drama, Music
Rating: 6.9/10
Length: 2h 19min

Storyline

On route to the stage, singer James Brown recalls a life with a turbulent childhood where music was his only constructive release for his passions. A chance demonstration of that in prison led to a new friend who helped get him out and into a musical career. With his fire and creative daring, Brown became a star who defiantly created new possibilities in show business both on and behind the stage in face of racism and conventional thinking. Along the way, James would also become a peacemaker who redefined and raised the African-American community's feeling of self-worth when it was needed most. However, those same domineering passions would lead James Brown alienating everyone around him as his appetites became ever more self-destructive. Only after he hit rock bottom with a serious mistake does Brown realize what he needs to do make his life as the Godfather of Soul truly worthwhile.

Plot Keywords

based on real person, brothel, concert, performer, black man, gospel music, man, african american, in medias res, breaking the fourth wall, 1970s, 1980s, mother son relationship, 1950s, 1960s, soul music

Short Review

The film tapers off in its final reel, ending on a conventional note -- but not before it has done its best to capture its subject in all his manic and absurd glory.