The Masked Cinema 2022 - I Wanna Dance with Somebody

Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody is the latest biographical musical drama following films about Elton John and Queen. Directed by Kasi Lemmons, based on the life and career of American pop singer and actress Whitney Houston. Houston is played by the talented Naomi Ackie, while her manager/friend is played by Stanley Tucci. Also joining the cast is Ashton Sanders, Tamara Tunie, Nafessa Williams, and Clarke Peters.

I Wanna Dance with Somebody was released against the ridiculous number of screenings for Avator 2. There is a big focus on the early years/relationship with Robyn Crawford (Nafessa Williams). This has always been a controversial part of Houston's history.

Also in the mix is her marriage to Bobby Brown (Ashton Sanders) and her relationship with her daughter. Which if you know your Whitney history ends tragically.

By the critics, the film received mixed reviews, who praised Ackie's portrayal of Houston and the musical sequences, but criticized McCarten's screenplay.

I really enjoyed this film. Maybe as a music lover, I saw how she was played by the label, her family and Bobby. Whitney was a HUGE talent. Her music is timeless. I Wanna Dance with Somebody will always get folks on the dance floor. Gay or straight.

This was a fun, whilst tragic film. Whitney is incredible. Was incredible. Her music will always live on.

I enjoyed the two hour plus look at her very short life.

4 Stars. Finally a decent film in 2022!