Queen Latifah stars as legendary blues singer Bessie Smith in this HBO Films presentation, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Dee Rees from a screenplay by Dee Rees and Christopher Cleveland & Bettina Gilois. With a story by Dee Rees and Horton Foote, the film focuses on Smith’s transformation from a struggling young singer into “The Empress of the Blues,” who became one of the most successful recording artists of the 1920s and is an enduring icon today.
“Beautifully affecting ... showcasing a gutsy, soul-and flesh-baring performance by Queen Latifah.”
Go Behind the Scenes
Interviews, commentary and more with the cast and crew.
Behind the Scenes
Star and executive producer Queen Latifah and director and writer Dee Rees discuss the making of Bessie.
Interview
The writer and director shares how she was introduced to the music of Bessie Smith, and what she hopes viewers take away from the film.
Behind the Scenes
Star and executive producer Queen Latifah and director and writer Dee Rees discuss the making of Bessie.
Interview
The writer and director shares how she was introduced to the music of Bessie Smith, and what she hopes viewers take away from the film.
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