Mama, I Want to Sing isn’t a new story — audiences loved the off-Broadway musical in the ’80s. But one doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel to tell a good tale.
Mama explores faith, family and the power of love, and stars singer Ciara as Amara Winter, a young gospel singer who breaks into the world of pop music. But her relationship with her preacher mother (Lynn Whitfield) is tested and strained once the media notices Amara. She, then, turns to her father (Marvin Winans) and Sister Carrie (Patti LaBelle). Like many stars, real and imagined, Amara must figure out how to balance her new fame while staying true to herself and family.
Mama features performances by R&B and gospel music legends, and actors, including Ben Vereen, Hill Harper, Billy Zane and Kevin Phillips, get screen time. And Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment has released the film adaptation of Mama today, Feb. 14. There’s even a study guide to go along with this flick, so you don’t miss the important messages.
You definitely can’t beat good music and an enduring message!