Ntozake Shange Movies

Based on the book of the same name by Allan Slutsky, Standing in the Shadows of Motown is a historical tribute to the unsung heroes responsible for some of the greatest hits of pop music. Part documentary and part concert performance, this film is an introduction to the intriguing personas of the Hitsville studio band originally assembled by Berry Gordy in 1959. Over 40 years later, the remaining members reunited in their home base of Detroit, MI, to tell their stories, remember their departed bandmates, and put on a concert. The creation of the Motown sound is told through in-depth interviews, archival footage, and reenactments. Personal stories are intercut with live tracks from the concert performance featuring the Funk Brothers live on-stage along with popular vocalists interpreting some of their biggest hits. Some of the guest singers stick around for conversation with the musicians and offer a contemporary perspective, including Joan Osborne, Me'Shell NdegéOcello, and Ben Harper. The film follows the group's contributions through the '60s up until Gordy moved the label to Los Angeles in 1972. ~ Andrea LeVasseur, Rovi

Oz Scott directed this made-for-television performance of Ntozake Shange's musical For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide. Originally airing in 1982, the play recounts the history and struggles of African-American women in the United States. The star-studded cast includes performances by such prominent entertainers as Patti LaBelle, Carol Maillard, Lynn Whitfield, Alfre Woodard, and playwright Shange herself. ~ Matthew Tobey, Rovi