Life Is Not a Fairytale: The Fantasia Barrino Story (2006)
In the Lifetime® movie, THE FANTASIA BARRINO STORY: LIFE IS NOT A FAIRYTALE, a single teenage mother overcomes all odds - sexual abuse, poverty and illiteracy - by relying on her spectacular singing voice. She ultimately gains national prominence as the winner of a hit talent show. Fantasia Barrino plays herself in this modern true Cinderella story. Also starring Loretta Devine, Kadeem Hardison and Viola Davis.
Watch Trailer
Cast
Similar titles
Reviews
Excellent but underrated film
In truth, there is barely enough story here to make a film.
Through painfully honest and emotional moments, the movie becomes irresistibly relatable
what a terribly boring film. I'm sorry but this is absolutely not deserving of best picture and will be forgotten quickly. Entertaining and engaging cinema? No. Nothing performances with flat faces and mistaking silence for subtlety.
While I thought Fantasia did a wonderful job of portraying herself, in what had to have been a deeply cathartic experience for her, I felt that the show overall, specifically the part dealing with American Idol, was handled in a very unsatisfying, shallow and superficial way.I was looking forward to this part of the story, most of all, to see, in a little depth, what went on inbetween her actual appearances on the show, but we got none of that, just a bunch of the TV clips strung together, and the next thing we know, she's up there with Diana DeGarmo waiting for the Finale result.The ending, also, was completely unsatisfying; it felt as if it were tacked on as an afterthought.Fantasia's story is an inspiring one, there's no question. It's a story that deserves better a telling than this.
I loved this movie. Fantasia's story is a real and true story of many. I really love how she was able to relive some awful times that she encountered. I must say there was some age issues for me. At times you could not tell how old she was, and when she was supposed to be playing herself as a teenager she was given a very heavy southern accent. Another aspect of the movie I really enjoyed was the singing of Loretta Divine and the actress that played Fantasia's mother. Kadeem Hardison did a great job playing a strong father as well as a young father. Little Indyah Hanshaw was wonderful. I hope to see her in many more films, commercials, the works!!
This movie was absolutely awesome. I could relate to her regarding some personal trials she went through and it only made me respect her more. The last church scene was spiritually touching!Fantasia did a great job of portraying herself. You go girl!!!! I was apprehensive about that choice but 'Tasia worked it out! The cast was also well casted. Chico Benymon is such a cutie. I love him from "Half & Half". Also, Kadeem Hardison has definitely grown as an actor. I can now see beyond the "Dwayne Wayne" persona. He IS a grown man now. I'm not familiar with the woman who played her mother but she did an awesome job herself.It's just a great job done all around. Kudos to Debbie Allen on directing this hit movie!
I have a new found respect for Miss Fantasia! Not only did she do a wonderful job playing herself, but you are left inspired by her story.This movie was well casted and directed brilliantly by Debbie Allen. Lorretta Divine is just that! Kadeem Hardison is a riot and adds comedic flavor to the mix. Viola Davis is a joy to watch as Fantasia's mother. Thomas Hyde III does a nice job in the supporting role of her brother. There are wonderful musical segments that enhance the story as well-just enough that it doesn't take away from the plot.This is something that you just have to see for yourself. I suggest you have a box of tissues next to you.