What's Love
What's Love

Movie spotlight

What's Love

1987
Movie
81 min
English

Previously lost reconceptualization of Bill Cable's unfinished early 70s epic titled "What is Love," which deals with themes of romantic obsession and Christian blasphemy.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes72%
Metacritic69/100
Google Users85%
Director: Brian GibsonGenres: Biography, Drama, Music

Plot Summary

This biographical drama chronicles the tumultuous life of Tina Turner, from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her rise as a global music superstar. The film unflinchingly portrays her abusive relationship with Ike Turner, her escape from his control, and her eventual triumphant comeback as a solo artist. It is a story of survival, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit against overwhelming odds.

Critical Reception

What's Love Got to Do with It received generally positive reviews from critics, who lauded Angela Bassett's powerful performance as Tina Turner. While some critics found the film's portrayal of Ike Turner to be somewhat sympathetic, most agreed that it was a compelling and ultimately inspiring biopic. Audiences were also drawn to the film's music and its themes of overcoming adversity.

What Reviewers Say

  • Angela Bassett delivers a tour-de-force performance that rightfully earned her an Oscar nomination.

  • The film successfully captures Tina Turner's incredible journey from abuse to stardom, highlighting her strength and resilience.

  • While the narrative sometimes struggles to balance the harsh realities with inspirational moments, the musical numbers and Bassett's performance are undeniable highlights.

Google audience: Audiences praised Angela Bassett's incredible portrayal of Tina Turner, finding the film inspiring and uplifting. Many appreciated the iconic music featured throughout the movie, though some felt the depiction of Ike Turner could have been harsher.

Awards & Accolades

Angela Bassett was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Tina Turner. The film also received Golden Globe nominations for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for Bassett.

Fun Fact

Angela Bassett reportedly learned to sing by listening to Tina Turner's songs on repeat and practicing the vocalizations intensely.

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