Respect has long awaited its August 13th theater debut since filming wrapped prior to the coronavirus pandemic. This biographical drama chronicles the life of the legendary singer and activist, Aretha Franklin. Jennifer Hudson, who rose to both singing and acting fame after being a finalist on American Idol, takes on the lead role with her powerful vocals. Before her passing in 2018, Aretha Franklin was involved in the early development of the film and personally chose Hudson to depict herself. Both women came from gospel backgrounds and were raised singing in the church, allowing Hudson to truly connect with Franklin’s roots.
The film gives us an in-depth look at who Aretha Franklin really was and how she rose to be the legendary “Queen of Soul” we know her as today. The premise of the movie showcases her religious upbringing – including singing in the church choir. From there, her difficult rise within the music industry produces the discovery of her independence, as well as her inner voice, through music. Franklin’s independence-fueled anthems such as Respect and Think serve as strong backdrops to the theme of coming into one’s own. Hudson’s own independence and powerful vocals bring life to the legacy that Aretha Franklin left through her music and her story.
Respect shows not only the power in Franklin rising to independence, but the deeply effective power of understanding what it means to be respected not only by those around you, but by yourself. Check out the trailer below for a peek at this powerful film:
Photo Credit: Quantrell D. Colbert/MGM