Review of The Secret Life of Bees (2008) by J K — 13 Apr 2013

I guess what was so confusing about this movie is that the ensemble cast combined has more musical talent than any movie I've seen come out since The Sound of Music yet does not have a single musical number.

There's a really good soundtrack full of songs written and performed by the cast, but I am just perplexed as to why they didnt turn this into a musical. Not only would it have been fantastic but would have also made the story a hell of a lot more interesting.

Somehow (and call me a pig for saying this) but my idea of enthralling cinema does not involve women bonding over beekeeping. In other words, I hate freaking chick flicks. Sue me. Can someone tell me why Alicia Keys and Jennifer Hudson didn't sing a single song in this movie please???????????????????????!!!!!!!!!! Hell, Queen Latifah was nominated for a freaking Oscar for her role in Chicago and doesnt even sing, either.

No wonder this thing saw limited release. Didn't Hollywood learn anything from Purple Rain/? (you don't let singers carry a movie dramatically. You add MUSIC).