Starring Taraji P. Henson, Halle Bailey, Fantasia and More, ‘The Color Purple’ Trailer Unveils Fresh Interpretation of Alice Walker’s Classic Novel [Video]

The official trailer for the captivating tale, ‘The Color Purple,’ is finally here.

The adaptation of the classic film sees the collaborative efforts of Oprah, Steven Spielberg, Quincy Jones, and Scott Sanders, who aim to breathe life into the acclaimed Broadway musical rendition of The Color Purple, which initially premiered in 2005.

During a virtual event hosted by Warner Bros on Monday, Baller Alert gained an exclusive preview of the eagerly awaited film’s trailer. The event featured the esteemed presence of Oprah Winfrey and director Blitz Bazawule, who engaged in a Q&A session with us. They delved into their innovative approach to bringing Alice Walker’s timeless tale to life, discussing the unique perspective and creative choices that shape their bold reinterpretation.

The complete ensemble features a talented cast, with Taraji P. Henson taking on the role of Shug Avery, Fantasia portraying Celie, Danielle Brooks embodying Sophia, Halle Bailey capturing the essence of young Nettie, and Colman Domingo stepping into the shoes of Mister. Leading the directorial helm is Blitz Bazawule, known for his work on Beyoncé’s “Black Is King.” Bazawule and Oprah discuss what working with an all-star ensemble was like.

“Every time I was on set, I was like the spoiled director. The amount of talent, ability, and brilliance was through the roof,” Bazawule said.  

The ensemble comprises a mix of seasoned performers, well-versed in impactful filmmaking, and newcomers embarking on their first cinematic journey. Bazawule eloquently expressed how a profound sense of camaraderie, affection, and sisterhood permeated the cast from the very onset of the project, creating an environment that he described as deeply therapeutic and restorative.

Fantasia brings her previous experience as Celie in the 2007-2008 Broadway production, while Brooks showcased her remarkable talent as Sofia during the play’s revival from 2015 to 2017 on Broadway.

“One of the things that was so moving to me is that from the first day of shooting (even from the crew) was honored to be a part of this project. Everybody understood that we were taking on something that was immeasurable in terms of its soulful connection to the audience. The Color Purple is a huge part of our culture to this day. So I think the energy and vibrational frequency that shows up when you’re working on something this special comes through in the joy of the film,” Oprah said.

In 1985, Oprah made her acting debut as Sofia in Spielberg’s adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel—and earned an Academy Award nomination. In this adaptation (40 years later), Winfrey will showcase her producer talents. With the film being a property dear to the Black community, Winfrey shared the importance of sharing this story in this way — during this particular time. 

“This movie is important because as long as there’s a need for self-discovery, self-empowerment—a need for victory in someone’s life. A need for people to know what it feels like to be loved up and to be made full and whole through somebody else’s love —there will be a need for The Color Purple,” she said. “I believe that in the future, this story will just grow, and it never grows old.”

The Color Purple musical film is due in theaters on December 25, 2023. Watch the trailer above.