Bessie

Bessie (Latifah) offers an intimate look at the determined woman whose immense talent and love for music took her from anonymity in the rough-and-tumble world of vaudeville to the 1920’s blues scene and international fame. Capturing Bessie's professional highs and personal lows, the movie paints a portrait of a tenacious spirit who, despite her own demons, became a celebrated legend. Throughout the years, Bessie Smith has served as an inspiration for such illustrious singers as Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, and Nina Simone, among others. Nominated for 12 Emmy Awards® including Outstanding Television Movie. (Gary Reber)