In 1960s Chicago, soul trio The Dreamettes are signed as backing singers to James "Thunder" Early (Eddie Murphy). It's a big break, but it's not long before they're itching to front their own group. Effie (Jennifer Hudson) has the best voice, but manager Curtis (Jamie Foxx) thinks Deena (Beyoncé Knowles) has the crossover appeal to make it in the pop charts. Effie's devastated, especially when Curtis leaves her for Deena.
Years later, when Deena is a superstar and Effie is broke, the girls are reunited by another of Curtis's bad decisions; he's betrayed Effie again - but this time Deena's going to stand by her old friend.
Released in 2006, this is a thumping addition to the recent spate of musical-turned-movie releases. Director Bill Condon builds on his Chicago success, writing and directing Dreamgirls and earning three Golden Globes and two Oscars for a job well done. The story may be one we've heard before, but the songs sparkle, thanks to powerful performances from Knowles and newcomer Hudson.
Dreamgirls is a Film programme that first aired in 2006 and has been classified a 12 certificate.
