| Sparkle | |
|---|---|
&sq=Facebook&lang=en&file=File:Sparkle-1976film.jpg) Theatrical release poster | |
| Directed by | Sam O'Steen |
| Screenplay by | Joel Schumacher |
| Story by |
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| Produced by | Howard Rosenman |
| Starring | |
| Cinematography | Bruce Surtees |
| Edited by | Gordon Scott |
| Music by | Curtis Mayfield |
Production company | |
| Distributed by | Warner Bros. |
Release date |
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Running time | 98 minutes |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $1 million |
| Box office | $4 million |
Sparkle is a 1976 American musical drama film directed by Sam O'Steen and released by Warner Bros. Pictures. With a plot inspired by the history of the Supremes, Sparkle is a period film set in Harlem, New York, during the late 1950s and early 1960s. It presents the story of a musical girl group that ends up breaking apart due to individual issues each member faces. This film not only "recreates the magic of a special period in American history, but it explores the effect of Harlem's musical and social culture on the rest of the world," as well as the linkages to black power.[1]
The film stars Irene Cara, Philip Michael Thomas, Lonette McKee, Dwan Smith, Mary Alice, Dorian Harewood, and Tony King. Curtis Mayfield served as the composer and producer of Sparkle's songs and score.[2]
Although the film received generally negative reviews at the time of release, it was a box office success, making $4 million against a $1 million budget. It has since developed a cult following. The film was remade in 2012 starring Jordin Sparks, Carmen Ejogo, Tika Sumpter, and Whitney Houston in her final film role.
- ^ "Excitement and Glitter of the Mid-50s: Sparkle". No. 6. Seattle Skanner. The Skanner (1975–1988). November 18, 1976. ProQuest 370442214.
- ^ Ken Anderson (February 9, 2012). "DREAMS ARE WHAT LE CINEMA IS FOR..."