The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel movie review
The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel biopic premiered on April 11 on Lifetime. The Clark Sisters are an esteemed gospel recording group that have influenced both r&b and gospel music today. The biopic captures five sisters, Jackie, Denise, Elbernita (Twinkie), Dorinda, and Karen, from Detroit, Michigan, and their rise to fame. Growing up in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), the Clark Sisters lived a very strict religious life that their mother, Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, made sure they would never depart from. To no surprise, the movie was highly anticipated by both the gospel and the “secular” world, as it was executive produced by Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliott, and Queen Latifah.
The biopic features live singing by the actresses, which made the story more genuine. As a fan of gospel music, there were moments when singing along seemed contagious. The music allowed the movie to progress fluidly and created the feeling that the viewer was right alongside the Clark Sisters on their journey. Since there were so many relatable aspects, it felt natural to root on their success, especially knowing that there were so many things trying to hold them back. This movie is a testimonial that everyone goes through struggles, no matter your background. From the beginning of the movie, it was undeniable that gender roles played a significant role in their world, specifically in Dr. Mattie Moss Clark’s life. There was a clear expectation of women; they were intended to take the back seat. Despite her musical success, Dr. Clark’s husband did not accept her desire to minister through music, to the point where she had to hide her gold records underneath her daughters’ beds. Since the Clark Sisters’ lives were so intertwined with their mother’s, the need for acceptance became an issue that they inherited.
The Clark Sisters performing at the Grammys was a monumental moment that validated their success and symbolized the evolution of gospel music. At the height of their career, it was evident that each sister felt that they had to please their mother. Despite that, the movie captures the importance of having a strong will and faith to overcome all the obstacles that present themselves. “Dear Twinkie, when your finances, relationships, and inner peace were attacked you cried, prayed and survived! Thank you for reminding us how to endure hardness as a good soldier”, says Christina Bell, who played Twinkie in the biopic. Amazing acting and singing were showcased, while promoting familial unity, motivation, and love. The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel biopic is a phenomenal story of resilience that everyone can relate to and take something from.
Report: Brionna Thompson
At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.