While most fans are left with sad memories of Whitney Houston because of the ways that she abused herself and her gifts later in her life, their parting view of Whitney may be transformed after they see her in the movie, “Sparkle.”
That’s the hope of Pastor T.D. Jakes, one of the producers of the movie. The tale of sisters who overcome hardships and addiction delivers a powerful message, Jakes says.
“I think that people are really going to be inspired by the ‘Sparkle’ story because it is an opportunity to see that sometimes dreams really do come true if you’re committed to them, if you’re relentless,” he said.
Jakes believes that Houston’s portrayal and her death will stress to movie viewers that people need to get help and turn their lives around before it’s too late.
“You’re going to make mistakes, but we can learn from each other, and we can share with each other,” Jakes said.
The theme in “Sparkle” has particular resonance in the life of Houston, who also battled addiction for most of her adult life and who accidentally drowned in a hotel room bathtub earlier this year because her body was addled by cocaine use and heart disease.
Actress and singer Bre’ly Evans said she had a memorable moment with Houston that will stay with her for the rest of her life. Evans, who plays the best friend of Sparkle, played by Jordin Sparks, said Houston pulled her aside one day and said she wanted to have lunch with her. At the lunch, she advised Evans “to use all of your gifts that God gave you.”
She said Houston’s words inspired her to move beyond just acting to do more singing.
“She made a point to deposit something great in me,” said Evans. “That’s inspired me to reach out to producers about my singing.”
