Watch Whitney

Whitney is a 2015 biographical drama film directed by Angela Bassett, which chronicles the life and career of the late Whitney Houston. It stars Yaya DaCosta as Houston and Arlen Escarpeta as her ex-husband Bobby Brown. The film also features Yolonda Ross as Whitney's close friend and assistant Robyn Crawford. The movie begins with a young Whitney growing up in Newark, New Jersey, where she developed her love for music in the church choir. Her mother, Cissy Houston (played by Suzzanne Douglas), was a renowned gospel singer and her cousins included Dee Dee Warwick and Dionne Warwick. Whitney's family life is shown to be at times tumultuous due to her parents' marital problems and her father's heavy drinking. As a teenager, Whitney pursued a modeling career before transitioning to music. She was discovered by Clive Davis of Arista Records and quickly rose to fame with hits such as "Saving All My Love for You" and "I Will Always Love You". The film portrays the highs and lows of Whitney's career, including her struggles with drug addiction and public image. It also explores her complex relationship with Brown, whom she married in 1992 and divorced in 2007. Throughout the film, we see Whitney's vulnerability as well as her strength as she navigates the pressures of a demanding industry and the scrutiny of the media. DaCosta delivers a powerful performance, capturing the essence of Whitney's voice and mannerisms while also bringing depth to her character. Escarpeta also shines in his portrayal of Brown, capturing both his charisma and his darker side. One particularly impactful scene in the film is when Whitney performs the national anthem at the 1991 Super Bowl. This performance cemented her place as a star and showcased her powerful voice to the world. The scene is recreated with remarkable accuracy, adding to the film's overall authenticity. Whitney is a well-crafted biopic that treats its subject matter with respect and compassion. Bassett's direction allows the story to unfold in a natural way, and the supporting cast all deliver strong performances. The film also features a soundtrack that includes some of Whitney's greatest hits, lending an additional layer of authenticity. Overall, Whitney is a powerful tribute to the life and legacy of one of the greatest singers of all time. It is a must-see for Whitney Houston fans and anyone interested in the music industry.