A popular finalist from the TV series "American Idol" has landed a feature role in "Dreamgirls" from DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures - and it's not Fantasia as was rumored. Jennifer Hudson has joined the cast of the movie musical which stars Beyonce Knowles, Jamie Foxx, Eddie Murphy, Danny Glover, and Anika Noni Rose. The film version of the hit Broadway musical takes place in the 60s and 70s and follows Effie (Hudson), Deena (Knowles), and Lorrell (Rose), a promising girl group who call themselves The Dreamettes.
Jamie Foxx plays Curtis Taylor Jr, an ambitious manager who gives the girls the chance to sing back-up for James "Thunder" Early (Murphy). Curtis molds the women into The Dreams and gives them their own shot at fame. However the spotlight shifts from the group to just Deena, pushing Effie out altogether.
Bill Condon ("Kinsey") will direct the film from a screenplay he adapted from the stage musical's original book by Tom Eyen. Laurence Mark will produce "Dreamgirls" with Patricia Whitcher executive producing. "Dreamgirls" will feature songs with lyrics by Tom Eyen and music by Henry Krieger
What a great break for Jennifer. George must be so pleased. This role really is the role of a lifetime for a newcomer and should really put her on the map. Jennifer is very talented and all she needs is some recognition. I am thrilled. Nice to "spread the wealth around" a little. Fantasia is getting a lot of attention and didn't need this role as much as Jennifer does.
Oh, the movie will be out at the end of 2006, probably in time for the holiday movie releases, which is excellent timing.
