Get On Up

The film opens in 1993, featuring James Brown (Chadwick Boseman) as he navigates a dimly lit hallway, the echoes of an adoring audience chanting his name surround him. He reflects on the significant people who shaped his life. The narrative shifts back to 1988 in Augusta, Georgia, where James discovers that a private bathroom in a strip mall he owns has been used without his permission. During a confrontation with the trespasser, he surprisingly chooses to forgive, but an accident with a shotgun leads to police involvement.

As the story unfolds in the 1960s, James and his band embark on a journey to Vietnam, showing solidarity with black troops through a highly praised performance. Flashing back to 1939, we learn about James’s challenging upbringing, raised in the woods by his financially struggling parents, Susie and Joe Brown. His early aspirations in music take shape as he sings with The Famous Flames, a group initiated by Bobby Byrd (Nelsan Ellis), whose family helps James after his release from prison for a petty theft—a suit.

James’s life takes a turn as he moves in with the Byrd family, solidifying his role as lead singer of Bobby’s group. In 1964, their manager, Ben Bart, makes a controversial decision to have The Rolling Stones close The T.A.M.I. Show instead of The Flames, yet James and his band steal the spotlight. Following this, he simply quips to the Stones, “Welcome to America.” His childhood is marked by turmoil as Susie leaves Joe, who is abusive and keeps James until he goes to the army, leaving James under the care of Aunt Honey, who runs a brothel. Despite this, James finds solace in church and the joy of the choir.

At 17, a fateful decision sees James stealing a suit once again, leading to a five-to-thirteen-year prison sentence. While incarcerated, he witnesses a singing performance that inspires him, igniting a riot in which he and Bobby are injured. This bonds them, and Bobby soon welcomes James into his household. Eventually, they form The Famous Flames, opening for Little Richard and cementing their place in music history.

A vivid flashback reveals a traumatic experience where young boys, including James, are forced into a battle royal while a band plays, and his determination shines as he wins the match amidst the odds. The 1950s see the group land a significant deal with King Records, leading to their first single, “Please, Please, Please”. Despite initial skepticism from executive Syd Nathan, James’s extraordinary vocals win over the critics. However, as records come to be known more for James’s talents than the band, tensions rise, with most members leaving except for Bobby.

The Famous Flames undergoes changes as James reassembles the group and performs at the famed Apollo Theater to exhilarated crowds. Following the concert, Bobby informs James that a woman claiming to be his mother is backstage. Memories flood back of Susie and the turmoil of his youth, and he recalls her dismissal as he grapples with his emotions.

Amidst personal turmoil, James has a son, Teddy, with his first wife, Velma, before divorcing her and later marrying Dee-Dee. A holiday gathering reveals darker undertones when James reacts violently toward Dee-Dee, exposing the cracks in their relationship. Through music, he attempts to connect with the African American community, famously recording “Say It Loud - I’m Black and I’m Proud” in 1968. After the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., he bravely persuades the Boston Garden’s management to proceed with a performance, commanding the volatile audience with profound authority.

As time passes, James struggles with the management of his band. The death of Ben sends ripples through the group, leading to conflict with Bobby, who contemplates a solo career, resulting in a dramatic confrontation. A pivotal moment occurs at the Apollo when Susie reappears, striving to mend their fractured relationship after years apart.

In 1973, devastating news strikes as James learns of Teddy’s tragic car accident. Ghosts from his past haunt him as he smokes angel dust, leading to erratic behavior and an eventual arrest. Fast forward to 1993, where James and Bobby reunite after years, with James offering VIP tickets to his upcoming show. The film culminates in a powerful moment as James steps onto the stage, greeted by shadows of his life chanting his name, delivering a poignant rendition of “Try Me (I Need You)” that moves both Bobby and his wife Vicki to tears, reminding everyone of the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 04:59