Sparks’ voice sparks ‘Sparkle’

by JON BREAM
MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE

“Sparkle” commands attention because it’s the last movie for Whitney Houston and the first for “American Idol” winner Jordin Sparks.

The film tells the story of three sisters who want to become the next Supremes over the protestations of their church-going single mom (Houston), a former R&B singer who got burned by the music biz.

No, this isn’t a redo of “Dreamgirls.” This is a makeover of 1976’s “Sparkle,” which starred “Flashdance” singer Irene Cara. Houston was 13 when it came out, and the film reportedly inspired her so much that she watched it over and over as a teenager and later secured the remake rights.

Houston, who died three months after filming wrapped, holds her own, though she looks a bit out of it at times. The camera adores Sparks, though she is no Jennifer Hudson. The music and characterizations are strong. But what prevents “Sparkle” from shimmering is a predictable plot.

In short: The oldest daughter and lead singer, Sister (the tough and sultry Carmen Ejogo), moves in with a high-living comedian (the pimpish Mike Epps). When Sister ends up in jail for accidentally killing her abusive beau and the middle sister goes off to college, Sparkle (Sparks), a reluctant singer but gifted songwriter, steps up to the microphone solo. And – guess what? – Houston, the conflicted but proud mama, is clapping in the theater.