Book Vs. Movie: The Color Purple
The 1982 novel Vs. the 2023 movie musical


"The Color Purple" is a novel by Alice Walker that tells the story of Celie, a young African American girl in the early 20th century. Celie writes letters to God, sharing her struggles with abuse from her father and later from her husband, referred to as "Mr."The novel tackles racism, sexism, and the societal challenges of the time. Characters undergo personal growth, and the story emphasizes empowerment, self-discovery, and breaking free from societal constraints. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Award, and Steven Spielberg directed the 1985 film adaptation.

It was adapted into a musical with a book by Marsha Norman and music and lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray. The musical premiered on Broadway in 2005 and has since been staged in various productions worldwide. One notable aspect of "The Color Purple" musical is its powerful and soulful score, incorporating jazz, gospel, and blues elements. Between the original novel and the latest adaptation--which did we prefer?

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The life and work of the complicated/controversial Alice Walker.
• The plot of the story and changes in various adaptations
• The music that was created for the theatre.
• The cast of the 2023 film includes Fantasia Barrino (Celie,) Taraji P. Henson (Shug Avery,) Danielle Brooks (Sofia,) Colman Domingo (Mister/Albert,) Corey Hawkins (Harpo,) Phylicia Pearl Mpasi (Young Celie,) Ciara (Nettie,) H.E.R. (Squeak,) David Alan Grier (Reverand,) Deon Cole (Alfonso,) Jon Batiste (Grady,) Louis Gossett Jr. (Ol’ Mister,) Tamela J. Mann (First Lady,) Aunjaune Ellis-Taylor (Mama,) Elizabeth Marvel (Miss Millie,) Stephen Hill (Buster,) Adetinpo (Mary Ellen,) Tiffany Elle Burgess (Olivia,) Terrence J. Smith (Adam) and Halle Bailey as Nettie.

Clips used:

• “Keep it movin’.”
• The Color Purple (2023 trailer)
• “Hell No!”
• “Family Dinner”
• Oprah at the 2005 Tony Awards
• Music by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, and Stephen Bray.

Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts.
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