I love stumbling upon a movie that’s been remade. It’s like discovering a new twist on an old favourite! A remake’s value lies in the idea of bringing classic stories to a new audience, while also giving filmmakers the chance to reinterpret narratives. Seeing familiar stories with their fresh take and reimaginings is always interesting to regard.
I recently watched both “Sparkle” movies this month; a story that follows the journey of three sisters pursuing their dreams of stardom in the music industry. The original was released in 1976 and then remade in 2012 and is loosely inspired by the rise of the Motown musical group, The Supremes.
The cinematography in both versions of “Sparkle” plays a crucial role in capturing the essence of the eras they depict. In the 1976 original, the gritty, documentary-style approach was immersive, transporting me to Harlem in the late 1950s. Conversely, the 2012 remake adopts a more polished and stylised aesthetic of the late 60s. The vibrant colours, sleek camerawork, and dynamic framing reflect the modern sensibilities of its contemporary production.
Music lies at the heart of both versions of “Sparkle” serving as a narrative driver and emotional anchor. In the original, the soundtrack features a cool blend of soul, funk, blues and gospel music. Songs like “Something He Can Feel” and “Hooked on Your Love” captured the spirit of the times.
The R&B group En Vogue later covered the song “Something He Can Feel” in the 90s. In a nostalgic move, they recreated the iconic scene of the Sisters, swaying in their red evening gowns, for their music video.
Just like many Black films of the time, the soundtrack played a vital role. Curtis Mayfield, famed for his work on “Superfly” was the man behind the music of the 1976 “Sparkle” soundtrack.
The 2012 remake pays homage to its predecessor with performances from Jordin Sparks, CeeLo Green and Whitney Houston. R. Kelly took the reins to craft several tracks to complement Mayfield’s timeless compositions from the original “Sparkle”. One standout among the new additions was the song “Celebrate”, a duet featuring Whitney Houston and Jordin Sparks. The track holds a special significance as it marks Houston’s final recording before her passing.
The 2012 remake’s diverse array of genres, including R&B, hip-hop, and pop, showcased the vocal prowess of the cast while, appealing to thens generation of music lovers.
Both versions of the musical drama grapple with the topics of race, class and identity in America, as well as the pursuit of the American Dream. The titular character Sparkle has to overcome adversity to realise her dreams of fame. Issues of gender (in)equality, substance abuse, and the commodification of talent are depicted in these films and are still pervasive in the entertainment industry today. Another recurring theme in both versions of “Sparkle” is the notion of sacrifice. As the sisters pursue their dreams, they’re forced to confront the personal and professional sacrifices that come with success in a cutthroat industry. The characters navigate the pitfalls of their pursuit, wrestling with the moral implications of doing so.
The performances in the “Sparkle” films from their respective casts are dazzling. In the original, Irene Cara shines in the role of Sparkle, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a young woman torn between her ambitions and familial obligations. Her screen presence was captivating and endearing. In the 2012 remake, Jordin Sparks steps into the role of Sparkle with grace and charisma.
Central to both versions of “Sparkle” is its celebration of African American culture and heritage. From the music to the fashion to the language, the film pays homage to the rich artistic traditions of the black community, highlighting the contributions of artists who have shaped popular culture for generations. By centering the narrative around three black women striving for success in a predominantly white industry, “Sparkle” offers a powerful commentary on race, class, representation, and the enduring legacy of talent.
Set against the backdrop of the 1950s, the original “Sparkle” captures glimpses of the tumultuous social and political climate of the era. From the Civil Rights Movement to the rise of Motown, I always find it intriguing how movies choose to elicit notable moments in history.
“You gotta be able to sparkle when your lights have gone out”
From the glittering stage lights to the faded glamour of nightclubs, “Sparkle’s” symbolism, motifs, and visual codes enrich the storytelling experience. The main motif of ‘sparkle’ serves as a metaphor for ambition, resilience, and desire. Whether it’s the character Sparkle’s wholesome dream of becoming a successful singer or Sisters’s pursuit of fame at any cost, the characters are constantly striving to shine brightly in a world that often seeks to dim their light.
One notable difference between the 1976 original and the 2012 remake is their approach to genre. While both films share the same basic storyline, thematic elements and soul-stirring music, they deviate in terms of tone and style. The 1976’s “Sparkle” leans heavily into the drama, focusing on the struggles and hardships faced by the characters. The 2012 film’s approach infuses notable elements of comedy into the story to lighten the mood significantly. While still addressing serious themes, the more lighthearted moments and witty dialogue, offer moments of levity amidst the drama. This shift in genre allows the later film to appeal to a broader audience, by balancing heavy subject matter. It also reflects the changing tastes and sensibilities of viewers in the noughties, who gravitated towards films with a more well-rounded viewing experience.
These films were released across two distinct periods, 1976 & 2012, and are both entertaining in their own right. A tale that serves as a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing.
