Loosely based on the story of the Supremes, Dreamgirls illustrates one Motown groups rise to fame. The fictional Dreams are followed from their humble beginnings in Detroit, to their recasting, and finally their break up. Filled with flashy costumes and infectious music, Dreamgirls became a broadway hit. Well received by critics, the musical was nominated for 13 Tony awards, and won six. For years, movie adaptations had been in the works, but due to legal or interest complications, the plans never came to fruition. Following the success of Chicago, the project was finally greenlighted and headed by director Bill Condon. Released in December 2006, the film has been the most expensive film with an all black cast. The film came to critical acclaim, winning a Golden Globe and 2 Academy Awards. In contrast to previous all black musical Porgy and Bess, Dreamgirls was a success from start to finish. Actors were eager to audition for roles, and the acceptance by audiences of all ethnicities was overwhelming. Comparing the characters in the 1959 film Porgy and Bess to the 2006 Dreamgirls, both share parallels, but the latter film surpasses the rigid stereotypes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yK4AEkzYDIE (2006 Dreamgirls trailer)
Deena Jones and Bess. Both are a somewhat tragic character. Deena Jones
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These movies, over 40 years apart, touch on similar topics of race and stereotypes. However, the more recent sheds a positive light on the cast, giving positive traits to the characters. The black characters are not seen as a cut out archetype, but rather an individual dealing with life events. The movie is shown to the audience, each individual takes away a unique moral. Even though the intended lesson can be misread, the fact there is a moral is enough. Positive representation bridges the gap between understanding and